The buzz around who will become President-elect Donald Trump’s next White House press secretary is reaching a fever pitch, and the latest name to enter the fray is Alina Habba, a close Trump adviser and attorney. Habba’s outspoken defense of Trump during his numerous legal battles has made her a prominent figure within MAGA circles, prompting speculation that she could be tapped to take on one of the most visible roles in the new administration.
The rumors were amplified by a report from Axios titled, “Scoop: Trump Expected to Shake Up White House Briefing Room,” which detailed a fierce competition for the position. Among the leading candidates are Karoline Leavitt, the national press secretary for Trump’s 2024 campaign; Monica Crowley, a former Treasury official and seasoned conservative commentator; and Habba herself. The idea of Habba as press secretary gained traction quickly on social media, with supporters touting her fiery style and media savvy as a perfect fit for Trump’s combative approach.
However, Habba playfully poured cold water on the speculation with a tweet early Wednesday. “While I am flattered by the support and speculation, the role of Press Secretary is not a role I am considering,” she wrote. “Although I love screaming from a podium, I will be better served in other capacities.” She ended the message with praise for the incoming administration, calling it “epic” and expressing her pride in being part of the Trump team.
Despite Habba’s lighthearted denial, her refusal hasn’t stopped the rumor mill. Her charisma and willingness to confront the media head-on make her an attractive candidate for a president who relishes a good fight with the press. Still, her statement suggests that she may be eyeing a different, perhaps more strategic, role within the administration.
As the speculation continues, two frontrunners are emerging: Karoline Leavitt and Monica Crowley. Leavitt, a former White House deputy press secretary, is a rising star known for her poise and on-message discipline under pressure. Crowley, a longtime Trump ally with a deep understanding of Washington’s media landscape, brings experience and gravitas that could help steady the ship in turbulent press briefings.
Sources also indicate that several other names are in the mix, including Sage Steele, a former ESPN host turned influencer; Scott Jennings, a CNN analyst with ties to the Bush administration; and Elizabeth Pipko, a model-turned-RNC spokesperson. Steven Cheung and Danielle Alvarez, both veterans of the Trump campaign communications team, are reportedly vying for the position of White House communications director.
As Trump’s January 20 inauguration approaches, the decision on who will helm the White House press briefing room is becoming a focal point of speculation. Whoever takes on the role will face a daunting task: handling a media landscape that has grown only more adversarial since Trump’s first term and managing the president’s own dynamic relationship with the press. For Trump, the pick isn’t just about messaging — it’s about setting the tone for his second administration.
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