JD Vance Steps to the Podium as White House Ends 42-Day Press Briefing Drought

Leavitt announced her resignation on August 12, saying she wanted to spend more time with her two young children after recently returning from leave. She departed at the end of August, and the White House has yet to announce a permanent successor.

Principal Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly and other administration officials have reportedly helped handle communications responsibilities in the meantime. Communications Director Steven Cheung and CNN contributor Scott Jennings have also been discussed as possible successors, although Jennings has publicly denied seeking the position.

During Thursday’s briefing, Vance focused heavily on the economy and affordability, defending the administration’s record while arguing Democratic policies would increase taxes and costs. Reporters also questioned him about energy policy, including the administration’s Venezuela oil agreement, and pressed him for information about the vacant press secretary position.

The increasingly visible role for Vance comes as Republicans prepare for the November midterm elections. It also gives the vice president another prominent national platform as speculation about the 2028 presidential race gradually builds.

For now, however, the immediate question remains unanswered: who will become the administration’s next permanent public face in the White House briefing room?