White House to Hold First Press Briefing in Weeks Amid Uncertainty Over Host

The White House has planned its first press briefing in weeks, but it’s anyone’s guess who will be behind the podium after press secretary Karoline Leavitt left her post last week.

Despite a raging war with Iran and looming midterm elections, it has been 40 days since someone from the Trump administration has stood before reporters in the White House briefing room and answered questions about the president’s agenda.

A White House official confirmed to several outlets that the long-awaited press briefing will take place Thursday, but it’s unclear who will be hosting it. The Independent has reached out to the White House for comment.

The last White House press briefing was held July 23 by Leavitt, a week after she returned from maternity leave following the birth of her second child in May. While Leavitt was on maternity leave, several Trump officials filled in at the podium, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

While there have been no formal press briefings for weeks, White House correspondents have still had regular access to President Donald Trump, whether at Oval Office events or during quick chats in front of Air Force One.

Trump told reporters before boarding the jet on August 21 that he’s “never had so many job applications in my life” when asked who his pick for press secretary was. “They all want that job.”

Several names have been floated as possible replacements for Leavitt after Trump announced in early August that she would leave to spend more time with her family.

Scott Jennings, a conservative commentator for CNN and former staffer for Mitch McConnell, could be in the running.

Trump’s chief of staff Susie Wiles recently met with Jennings at a Washington, D.C., steakhouse at the White House’s request, CNN reported in late August, citing two sources familiar with the matter.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung and White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly are also potential contenders.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Leavitt called her last day “bittersweet.”

“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,” said Leavitt, who has been known to spar with reporters.

When asked if she has any advice for the next person to take on her role, Leavitt said, “I will give my advice to whomever assumes the job. I think it’s most important in this job to understand that President Trump is his own best spokesperson.”