Live updates: Trump names Karoline Leavitt as White House press secretary

Leavitt, a former Trump campaign and administration official, will replace Kayleigh McEnany

The announcement comes as the Trump administration faces increasing scrutiny over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic

President Donald Trump has named Karoline Leavitt as the new White House press secretary, replacing Kayleigh McEnany. Leavitt, a former Trump campaign and administration official, will take over the role on January 20, 2021.

The announcement comes as the Trump administration faces increasing scrutiny over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. The United States has the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in the world, and the Trump administration has been criticized for its slow response to the crisis.

Leavitt is a former White House press aide who worked on the Trump campaign in 2016. She is a graduate of Harvard University and has a law degree from the University of Chicago.

Leavitt's appointment is likely to be controversial. She has been a vocal defender of Trump and his policies, and she has been criticized for her attacks on the media.

It is unclear how Leavitt will handle the role of press secretary. McEnany was a frequent target of criticism from the media, and she often clashed with reporters during briefings.

Leavitt's appointment comes as the Trump administration is preparing to leave office. President-elect Joe Biden will be inaugurated on January 20, 2021.