Insiders Worry for Pageant Queen as Expected Leavitt Replacement is Described as 'Not Polished'
Anna Kelly, the deputy press secretary, is stepping into the spotlight as Karoline Leavitt prepares for maternity leave. However, whispers of doubt circulate among insiders regarding Kelly's readiness to take on the role of the fiery press secretary.
Leavitt, 28, is on the verge of welcoming her second child with husband Nicholas Riccio, 60. Just days ago, she returned to work after a brief hiatus to address a press briefing following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner. Now, she is officially on maternity leave, leaving Kelly and other Trump administration officials to fill the gap.
Kelly, a former beauty queen crowned Miss State Fair of Virginia in 2019, has been making appearances on pro-Trump media outlets like Fox News and One America News. This comes in the wake of a controversial moment involving Trump and Melania that caught public attention.
At 29, Kelly mirrors Leavitt's approach by vocally supporting the president and criticizing what she terms "fake news," a skill seemingly essential for anyone in the Trump administration. Yet, sources close to the situation express skepticism about her ability to fully embody Leavitt's role. "She needs more polish despite being a former pageant contestant," remarked a former RNC official.
While Kelly has showcased her media presence, insiders remain unconvinced. "Good on TV, but I wouldn’t say she could completely fill Karoline’s shoes," another administration official commented. Kelly's academic background includes a Political Science degree from Auburn University and a Master's in Political Management from The George Washington University.
During her studies, she won the Miss State Fair of Virginia title with a platform aimed at promoting youth political engagement. "My generation stands in an incredible position of power," she stated, emphasizing the importance of political activism among young people.
In an interview with The Clay Travis & Buck Saxton show, Kelly described her experience in the White House as "exciting," dismissing negative media narratives. "They can try to push their fake news narrative," she asserted. "But guess what? The approval is on our side…this is what the American people want." She expressed enthusiasm about the administration's ongoing successes.
Leavitt is expected to be away for several weeks as she welcomes her new child, though the exact date of her return remains uncertain. During this interim period, Kelly will not be solely responsible for press duties; instead, various officials will share the responsibilities.
The White House has opted against appointing a formal substitute for Leavitt. Instead, Vice President JD Vance, select Cabinet members, or even President Donald Trump may temporarily assume press secretary duties. Meanwhile, Communications Director Steven Cheung will oversee operations with assistance from Leavitt's team, which includes Kelly and several other aides.
This transition comes amid heightened scrutiny following Melania Trump's recent health update after the alarming shooting incident.