Karoline Leavitt Reflects on Her Departure as White House Press Secretary

WASHINGTON — Thursday marks Karoline Leavitt’s last day as the youngest press secretary in White House history, concluding a 20-month tenure. On her final day, Leavitt spoke with reporters on the North Lawn of the White House, describing her departure as 'bittersweet.' 'It’s very bittersweet,' Leavitt said. 'I’ll miss you guys. I know that’s probably not something anyone would expect me to say, but obviously it’s been great working with all of you.' Leavitt emphasized that the role involves much more than public briefings, stating, 'Ninety percent of it is taking all of your calls at five in the morning and eleven p.m. at night, and I won’t really miss that. But I will miss working with you guys every day.' She expressed confidence that President Donald Trump would continue to engage with reporters until a replacement is appointed. When asked about advice for her successor, Leavitt noted, 'It’s most important in this job to understand that President Trump is his own best spokesperson.' She added, 'I believe so much in my heart about what this president is doing every day, the policies he’s enacting.' Trump previously announced Leavitt's departure to allow her to spend more time with her young children, Nicholas and Viviana. She will return to MAGA Inc. in an unspecified role and serve as a top outside adviser to Trump. 'It’s been an honor to speak on behalf of him and to understand his thinking and to relay it to all of you,' she concluded, stating that she would remain available while transitioning to spend more time with her family.