White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt gained significant attention after her sharp exchange with Michael Strahan on ABC’s Good Morning America. Strahan expressed concerns about the potential loss of experienced federal workers, like doctors and scientists, if they were required to return to the office full-time. Leavitt quickly countered, emphasizing that many doctors already work in hospitals and that the administration’s push for in-person work aligns with expectations for productivity and taxpayer accountability. Her direct response earned praise from her supporters, with some calling her the “grim reaper” of journalists and praising her performance as a “stone-cold killer.”
Leavitt, at 27, is the youngest press secretary in history and has been vocal about changing how the White House interacts with the media. In her debut briefing, she announced plans to open the press room to influencers, podcasters, and independent journalists, breaking away from traditional media outlets. This move is part of a broader strategy to connect with younger audiences who consume news through social media and new media platforms. Leavitt’s efforts to engage these groups reflect a shift in the Trump administration’s approach to communication, aiming to reach a wider and more diverse audience in 2025.
