President Donald Trump is heading into the 2026 midterms with two important White House jobs about to open. Because the White House is entering a busy period for Congress, with Republicans fighting to keep control of the House and Senate, the timing is crucial. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt is leaving at the end of August, while James Braid, Trump’s director of legislative affairs, will leave in September. But the two exits have different reasons. Leavitt has pointed to her family, while Braid is expected to move to the private sector.
But these two jobs are important, and replacements have not yet been announced.
After returning to work following the birth of her second child, she said the demands of being White House press secretary made it difficult to give her children the time they need. Trump has said she will continue helping him as an outside adviser. Leavitt’s decision is directly linked to her family. Leavitt has been one of Trump’s most visible and loyal aides. Her departure means Trump will need another person to take over a job that requires constant contact with reporters and the public. Braid’s departure comes at a different point. As Trump’s top congressional liaison, he has helped the White House work with lawmakers on major legislation and other fights on Capitol Hill. The departures do not by themselves show that Trump’s White House is in crisis. Senior staff changes are common around midterm elections. The White House could also face a very different political situation after the midterms. If Democrats take control of either chamber, Trump would have to work with Democratic leaders on spending bills and other legislation while facing greater congressional oversight.
Because congress is returning from its August recess for a difficult September session, his timing is crucial. Trump announced that Braid will leave in September. Braid is expected to move into the private sector, although his next job has not been publicly announced.
The president praised his work with Congress, including the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” government shutdown battles and the confirmation of his Cabinet. Whoever replaces Braid will have to quickly take over negotiations with lawmakers while Republicans prepare for the November midterms.
