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Incoming White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has signaled significant changes in the allocation of press credentials under President-elect Donald Trump’s new administration. In a move that could reshape media access to the White House, Leavitt suggested that podcasters and social media influencers may take priority over traditional legacy media journalists in the press briefing room.
Leavitt outlined the potential shift during an interview on Monday with Fox News host Kellyanne Conway. Conway introduced the topic by highlighting Trump’s innovative use of alternative media platforms like TikTok and appearances on prominent podcasts, including Joe Rogan and Theo Von’s shows, during the 2024 presidential campaign.
When asked if such figures could be consequential news voices moving forward, Leavitt responded emphatically. “As for the press briefing room,” she said, “we are certainly exploring ways on how to make sure that room reflects the media habits of the American people in 2024, not in the 1980s.”
Leavitt emphasized that the American public has turned away from traditional outlets. “If this election proved anything, it proved that the American people are no longer listening to the mainstream bias, anti-Trump legacy media,” she stated. “In fact, the ratings of many networks, not this one, but some others, are in the tank, and Americans are consuming their news from podcasters, social influencers, and yes, TikTok, as President Trump so exceptionally used on the campaign trail.”
Mainstream Media in Decline
Leavitt’s comments coincide with a Deadline report highlighting post-election viewership declines for legacy networks like MSNBC and CNN. The report notes that MSNBC viewership is down 57 percent, and CNN has seen a 49 percent drop since Election Day. The fallout has been particularly stark for outlets perceived as critical of Trump, following a campaign season where accusations and narratives often painted him in dire terms.
The press secretary-to-be didn’t mince words in addressing mainstream media’s role. “We will look to effectively communicate his (Trump’s) message through all mediums so that all Americans are hearing the facts from the White House directly, not through the lens of the ever-biased anti-Trump legacy media,” Leavitt declared.
A New Era of Access?
Leavitt’s statements signal a potential reconfiguration of the White House press corps, prioritizing figures outside traditional journalism. This could leave many legacy outlets sidelined. “There are only so many seats in that briefing room. Start adding podcasters and folks at the big networks, and newspapers are sure to be left on the outside looking in,” she said.
The possibility of seeing figures like Joe Rogan questioning the press secretary in a White House briefing reflects the administration’s desire to maximize public engagement through platforms that resonate with contemporary audiences.
Pushback From Legacy Media
The proposed changes have elicited concern from some journalists. Reports suggest that members of the press corps are already considering boycotts if the new administration prioritizes alternative media.
Critics of the move argue it undermines journalistic integrity and sets a precedent of excluding vital voices. However, Leavitt’s remarks highlight a broader trend: the shifting landscape of media consumption and the diminishing influence of traditional outlets.
