Scott Jennings' Candidacy for White House Press Secretary Declines Amidst President Trump's Doubts
Scott Jennings, a CNN conservative commentator and former Mitch McConnell adviser, has seen a significant drop in his implied probability to become the next White House press secretary. His chances fell from 29% to 20% in three days following reports that President Trump is 'not quite sold' on him for the role. This decline occurred despite Jennings having met with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, a step typically indicative of a serious candidacy. The current press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, announced her resignation in mid-August, citing family reasons, with her departure expected by the end of the month. This leaves a narrow window for the White House to name a successor. While Jennings remains among the market leaders, the reported hesitation from President Trump has created uncertainty, as President Trump's personal preference historically dictates such high-profile appointments.