Trump Weighs CNN Host Scott Jennings for Press Secretary
Trump has told close advisers he wants a male press secretary to replace Karoline Leavitt, who plans to leave the White House by month's end.
- 4 consecutive female press secretaries preceded this reported preference.
- Jennings met privately with Chief of Staff Susie Wiles over the weekend.
- Jennings sent clips of his cable appearances to several senior White House staffers.
- Ari Fleischer, press secretary under George W. Bush, is also under consideration.
Why it matters: The press secretary is the president's primary public spokesperson, appearing daily before journalists and cameras.
- Trump advisers believe a male pick would reduce direct comparisons to Leavitt.
How 13 sources split on this story
Where they split: Coverage disagrees on whether Jennings is a serious contender or is visibly overreaching for a position he has not been offered.
Left coverage, 7 sources: The left frames Jennings as nakedly self-promoting — a pundit sending his own clips to staffers and arranging meetings to chase a job he won't publicly admit he wants.
Raw Story5hDesperate Scott Jennings resorts to sending White House clips of himself itching for a job
The Independent5hScott Jennings makes public pitch for Leavitt’s job by defending Natalie Harp’s ‘honor’ as he meets with Trump’s chief of staff
Mediaite3hScott Jennings Denies He Wants the White House Press Secretary Gig — But These Guys Aren’t Buying It
AlterNet9hScott Jennings is sending video clips to White House staff in bid for jobCleCleveland.com5hTrump considering ‘shakeup’ to replace Karoline Leavitt — and 2 people may top list
CNN3hJennings emerges as early favorite to replace Leavitt at White House podium but process is just beginning
Political Wire23hTrump Considers a Man for Press SecretaryRight coverage, 5 sources: The right frames Jennings as a proven Trump defender who stepped up when it counted and earned legitimate consideration for the role.
Daily Mail1hInside 'Hunger Games' battle to replace Karoline Leavitt. Why the only person Trump really wants for the job... is causing major problems: MARK HALPERIN
RSBNetwork34mNew potential press secretary names surface as Karoline Leavitt departs White House
Washington Examiner37mCNN clashes built Scott Jennings for the White House briefing room. But is the risk worth the reward?
ZeroHedge2hThe Harp Defense: Jennings Jockeys For SPOX After Leavitt LeavesWhat’s next: Trump has been polling allies by phone on whether Jennings fits the role.
- The replacement process is described as slow-moving with no timeline set.
- Whether Trump will ultimately pick Jennings, Fleischer, or someone not yet publicly named.
- Whether Jennings will leave CNN if offered the position.