Full Breakdown
Trump Administration Expands Press Team with New Assistant Press Secretary
By Drooid · · How we work
Appointment of Beni Rae Harmony
The White House announced that Beni Rae Harmony, a 24-year-old correspondent for the conservative outlet Real America’s Voice, has been named assistant White House press secretary. Harmony, who began covering the administration for the network in September 2025, confirmed the appointment on the social platform X later that same day.
Background on Press Team Changes
The hiring follows the departure of Karoline Leavitt, who had served as White House press secretary since the administration’s return to office in January 2025. Leavitt, who became the youngest person to hold the role at age 27, announced her exit after the birth of her second child, citing the difficulty of balancing the demanding schedule with motherhood. Her resignation left the press secretary position vacant, prompting senior officials, including Vice President JD Vance, to assume press-briefing duties.
Key Figures
- Beni Rae Harmony – Assistant White House press secretary; former senior White House correspondent for Real America’s Voice.
- Karoline Leavitt – Outgoing White House press secretary; youngest ever to hold the post, now slated to serve as an outside advisor to the president.
- President Donald Trump – President of the United States; announced both Leavitt’s departure and Harmony’s appointment via Truth Social.
- Vice President JD Vance – Vice president; has been delivering press briefings in the interim.
Official Statements & Responses
President Trump posted on Truth Social that Leavitt’s decision to leave was understood and respected, emphasizing her continued role as a top outside advisor and influential voice within the Republican Party ahead of the midterm elections. Harmony expressed gratitude to the president for the opportunity and reiterated her commitment to representing “real Americans” and advancing the “American Dream.” Leavitt’s own X post explained that she could not fulfill the responsibilities of press secretary while providing the care she felt her children deserved.
Implications for the Administration
The addition of Harmony restores a level of staffing to the press office after a period of vacancy, while Leavitt’s shift to an advisory capacity suggests the administration will retain her experience within its broader political strategy. The reliance on the vice president and other officials for briefings underscores ongoing adjustments within the White House communications operation as the administration approaches the upcoming midterm election cycle.