Karoline Leavitt, who served as President Trump's press secretary during his second term, is set to join Fox News as a contributor beginning Nov. 1, according to a report from The New York Times. The move adds another prominent former Trump administration official to the network's lineup.
Leavitt, who was the youngest person ever to hold the role of White House press secretary, became known for her combative exchanges with reporters and her staunch defense of the president's agenda. She announced her departure from the administration earlier this summer, shortly after giving birth to her second child, citing a desire to spend more time with her family.
At Fox News, Leavitt will provide political commentary and analysis across the network's news and opinion programming. She will join a growing list of former Trump aides and allies who have found a home at the network, including former press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, who now hosts a show on Fox News.
Leavitt's transition to Fox News comes as the network continues to feature a number of Trump loyalists, even as the former president remains a dominant force in Republican politics. Trump has not yet named a successor to Leavitt, leaving the press secretary role vacant.
Before joining the White House, Leavitt was a Republican congressional candidate in New Hampshire and served as a spokesperson for Trump's reelection campaign. Her appointment as press secretary in 2024 made her the youngest person to ever hold the position.
Leavitt's move is part of a broader pattern of Trump administration officials and allies landing at Fox News, which has become a key platform for pro-Trump voices. The network has also drawn criticism for its coverage of the Biden administration and its role in amplifying Trump's claims about the 2020 election.
Fox News did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but the network has confirmed the hiring in a statement, praising Leavitt's experience and perspective.
Leavitt's first day at the network is expected to coincide with the start of the November ratings sweeps period, a key time for cable news networks. Her addition could help boost viewership during a period of intense political news coverage, including the upcoming midterm elections.
Political observers note that Leavitt's move underscores the close ties between the Trump administration and Fox News, which has faced legal challenges over its election coverage. The network settled a defamation lawsuit with Dominion Voting Systems in 2023 for $787 million, but has continued to feature Trump allies prominently.
Leavitt's new role will likely keep her in the public eye, as she is expected to appear on multiple Fox News programs, including those hosted by other former Trump officials. Her commentary will be closely watched for signals about the former president's political future, as he weighs a potential 2024 run.
