US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he would wait before appointing a new White House press secretary, leaving the position vacant since the end of August.
Speaking to reporters before departing Ireland, Trump said department secretaries would temporarily conduct press briefings in the absence of a press secretary, reports AFP.
“You know what we’re going to do for a little while? We’re going to use the secretaries,” Trump told journalists, adding, “But ultimately, I’ll pick somebody.”
The post was vacated at the end of August by 28-year-old Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. The youngest-ever US presidential spokesperson, Leavitt became known for her sharp exchanges with journalists during her tenure.
Her departure came after she decided to spend more time with her family following the birth of her second child in May. Since then, speculation has mounted in Washington over who will be selected to replace her.
The vacancy comes as Trump faces steadily declining poll numbers, while the Republican Party risks defeat in the upcoming November midterm congressional elections.
