The competition for White House press secretary in Donald Trump’s second administration narrowed Thursday as two reported candidates forcefully denied interest in the position.
Former ESPN star Sage Steele, initially reported by Axios as “vying for” the role, labeled the rumors “fake news” on social media.
“I haven’t had a single conversation with anyone about that job, and have no desire to do so!” Steele wrote, though she still reaffirmed her support for Trump’s campaign.
Take a look —
Not sure how these rumors began about me “vying” to be Press Secretary, but it’s definitely fake news! I haven’t had a single conversation with anyone about that job, and have no desire to do so! Honestly, it was the honor of a lifetime to be a small part of @TeamTrump during…
— Sage Steele (@sagesteele) November 14, 2024
Trump attorney Alina Habba also withdrew from consideration, saying she would “be better served in other capacities.”
So who will take the role? Insiders have whispered that campaign national press secretary Karoline Leavitt has emerged as the frontrunner.
But nothing is certain. Trump adviser Jason Miller, former administration official Monica Crowley, and campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung also all being considered.
CNN contributor Scott Jennings and RNC spokesperson Elizabeth Pipko are also reportedly under consideration.
The selection process comes as Trump’s team signals plans to reshape White House media relations.
Sources told Axios the administration may challenge traditional press room practices by giving MAGA-aligned outlets greater access, potentially at the expense of hostile mainstream media organizations that currently hold the briefing room’s 49 seats.
Such changes would build on Trump’s first term efforts, when his administration attempted to ban outlets like the New York Times and CNN from briefings.
The White House Correspondents’ Association controls seating assignments, but the administration determines press credentials, creating potential for significant changes in media access.