In today’s social media era, the personal images of political figures are constantly under public scrutiny. In this context, Kayleigh McEnany – former White House Press Secretary under President Donald J. Trump – has issued sharp criticism toward Karoline Leavitt, a rising star in conservative journalism and politics.
The controversy stems from bikini photos that Karoline shared on social media platforms, sparking debate within the conservative political and media communities. For McEnany, this was a misuse of personal imagery to gain popularity, which overshadowed the seriousness of a high-level White House position.
“I’ve worked with brilliant and capable women who didn’t need to show skin to rise to power. Karoline is wrong to mistake sex appeal for intelligence,” McEnany commented.
The White House Press Secretary and Professional Standards
According to McEnany, a White House Press Secretary is not merely a spokesperson, but a symbol of leadership demeanor and national responsibility. Karoline’s public display of provocative images not only diminishes her personal image but also undermines the integrity of the position.
McEnany emphasized that projecting sex appeal on social media will not earn Karoline respect in the political arena. Instead, she called on young professionals to focus on subject matter expertise, communication skills, and the ability to handle the press with tact.
WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 01: U.S. White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany speaks during a press briefing at the White House on October 1, 2020 in Washington, DC. President Donald Trump is traveling to Bedminster, New Jersey on Thursday for a roundtable event with supporters and a fundraiser. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
“Be Famous for Intelligence, Not Sex Appeal”
In her message to Karoline Leavitt, McEnany said: “I know Karoline is young, passionate, and on the path to becoming a face of the new generation in politics. But I urge her not to let the image of a White House Press Secretary be distorted by deliberate personal choices.”
