Trump’s press secretary Karoline Leavitt leaving role, president says – as it happened

Karoline Leavitt, the current White House press secretary, is leaving her role at the end of this month, according to an announcement made by Donald Trump on social media.

This development comes amid concerns that Leavitt and her predecessors may have violated the Hatch Act, a federal law that bars federal government employees from engaging in partisan political activity or disparaging a political opponent while on duty. Leavitt's parting statement was seen as a direct, partisan attack on the Democratic party.

The decision to replace Leavitt has raised questions about whether Trump's next press secretary will be more effective in carrying out their duties. Trump's past press secretaries have been known for pushing boundaries and telling unverified claims, with some even admitting to making up stories under oath.

Senator Jon Ossoff from Georgia has called on his Republican challenger to retract his support for compensating January 6 rioters who attacked the US Capitol in 2021. Additionally, Francesca Hong, who recently lost her bid for the Democratic nomination for Wisconsin governor, has pledged her support for David Crowley ahead of the November general election.

The upcoming change in leadership at the White House highlights the potential risks associated with a federal employee engaging in partisan activities and raising questions about the role of presidential advisors in shaping public discourse.