President-elect Donald Trump has announced his pick for White House press secretary: Karoline Leavitt, his campaign spokeswoman. At 27 years old, Leavitt will become the youngest person to hold this position. Trump expressed confidence in her abilities, stating that she will "excel at the podium and help deliver our message to the American people."

Leavitt's experience in the White House press office began during Trump's first administration, where she worked as a presidential writer and assistant press secretary after graduating from Saint Anselm College in 2019. She later served as communications director for Rep. Elise Stefanik, a senior Republican congresswoman nominated by Trump to serve as United Nations ambassador. Leavitt ran for Congress in New Hampshire's first district in 2022 but lost to Democrat Chris Pappas.

Her policy positions align closely with Trump's priorities, including cutting taxes, championing pro-growth policies, and supporting law enforcement and strong borders. Her campaign website emphasized a "zero-tolerance" stance on illegal immigration and the completion of the border wall. As Trump's campaign press secretary since January 2024, Leavitt has demonstrated her ability to communicate effectively on behalf of the president-elect.

Leavitt's appointment is significant, as she surpasses Ron Ziegler, who held the position at age 29 under President Richard Nixon in 1969. Trump's previous press secretaries, including Sean Spicer, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Stephanie Grisham, and Kayleigh McEnany, had varying tenures during his first term. The White House briefing room, where Leavitt will soon take the podium, has historically been a site of tense exchanges between the press and officials.

As Leavitt prepares to assume her new role, she will face intense scrutiny from both the media and the public. Trump's administration has been known for its complicated relationship with the press, and Leavitt's experience and stance on key issues will likely influence her interactions with journalists. With her appointment, Leavitt becomes a key figure in shaping the Trump administration's messaging and communication strategy, poised to make history as the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history.