A New Era for White House Communications? A Recap of Trump's Youngest Spokesperson's Debut

A Recap

Karoline Leavitt, the youngest White House press secretary in history, held her first press briefing on Tuesday, January 31st, 2024. Her tone was similar to that of President Donald Trump, with an emphasis on praising his accomplishments and criticizing the previous administration.

Leavitt began by highlighting Trump's achievements in his first week, including taking over 300 executive actions, securing nearly $1 trillion in U.S. investments, and deporting "illegal alien rapists, gang members, and suspected terrorists." She also claimed that the new administration has ended the "four-year-long invasion of illegal aliens" under the Biden administration.

Leavitt also took aim at former President Joe Biden, claiming that egg prices increased 65% during his presidency and that his administration spent money "like a drunken sailor." She also criticized the media, noting that trust in the mass media has reached a "record low."

Leavitt announced a "revolutionary media approach" that will give members of the "new media," such as podcasters and TikTokers, access to White House press briefings. She also announced a freeze on federal loans and grants to review funding for compliance with the White House's new policies, including the curtailing of DEI programs.

Leavitt praised Trump's visits to disaster areas in North Carolina and California, claiming that his presence led to the restoration of water in California and the resumption of deportation flights to Colombia.

Overall, Leavitt's first press briefing was marked by her strong support for President Trump and her criticism of the previous administration. She also announced several changes to the White House press operation, including the inclusion of "new media" in briefings and a freeze on federal funding.