Alina Habba Responds To Press Secretary Rumors: ‘I Am Flattered’
Speculation over who will helm the White House press briefing room for President-elect Donald Trump’s second administration took an intriguing turn early Wednesday, as Alina Habba, a Trump adviser and attorney, responded to swirling rumors about her potential candidacy for the role of press secretary.
The speculation gained traction following a report from Axios, “Scoop: Trump Expected to Shake Up White House Briefing Room,” which detailed a competitive race for the high-profile position. Among the names floated were Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaign’s national press secretary; Monica Crowley, a former Trump administration official; and Habba herself, whose fiery defense of Trump during his legal battles has made her a prominent figure in MAGA circles.
Habba addressed the rumors in a tweet, playfully rejecting the possibility of her stepping into the press secretary’s shoes. “While I am flattered by the support and speculation, the role of Press Secretary is not a role I am considering,” she wrote. “Although I love screaming from a podium, I will be better served in other capacities.” She punctuated the tweet with praise for the incoming administration, calling it “epic” and expressing pride in the Trump team.
While I am flattered by the support and speculation, the role of Press Secretary is not a role I am considering. Although I love screaming from a podium I will be better served in other capacities.
This adminstration is going to be epic! So proud of the Trump team, the latest…
— Alina Habba (@AlinaHabba) November 14, 2024
Habba’s lighthearted denial hasn’t entirely dampened speculation, as her charismatic and combative media presence could align with Trump’s desire to reshape the White House briefing room dynamic. Still, her statement hints that she may continue to play a significant role elsewhere in the administration.
New York, NY, USA 05-14-2024 Donald Trump lawyer Alina Habba speaks to press in front of the Trump hush money election interference trial courthouse 100 Center St Manhattan. Editorial use only.
The position of White House press secretary has historically been one of the most visible roles in any administration, requiring a deft balance of communication skills, media relations, and the ability to navigate the often fraught relationship between the press and the presidency. For Trump’s next term, the role could be even more high-stakes, given his contentious relationship with the media and promises to “drain the swamp” within Washington.
Trump loyalists Leavitt and Crowley are seen as strong contenders for the job. Leavitt, who served as the youngest-ever White House deputy press secretary under Trump, has already proven her ability to stay on message under pressure. Crowley, a seasoned conservative commentator, brings gravitas and a deep understanding of both the Trump agenda and the Washington media landscape.
Sources also revealed to Axios that Sage Steele, who transitioned from an ESPN host to an influencer, along with CNN analyst and Bush administration alum Scott Jennings, and Elizabeth Pipko, a model who became an RNC spokesperson, are contenders for the position. Additionally, Steven Cheung and Danielle Alvarez, both veterans of the Trump campaign’s communications team, are competing to become the White House communications director.
As Trump’s January 20 inauguration draws near, all eyes remain on the West Wing’s personnel moves.