White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt spoke on the conservative Ruthless Podcast on July 22, 2025, highlighting what she termed President Donald Trump’s “incredible” achievements in the first six months of his second term. Leavitt commended Trump’s successes while making critical remarks about former President Joe Biden and previous administrations.
Leavitt was forthright in her critique of Biden during the podcast. She remarked that while her predecessor had shortcomings, she nearly felt sympathy for her because it was challenging to represent a president she deemed brain-dead, emphasizing her sincerity. Her comments were directed at both Biden and his press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre.
These remarks follow previous criticisms. After a public address by Biden, Leavitt mocked his age, expressing surprise at his late-night speech, implying an earlier bedtime. In May 2025, Leavitt accused former First Lady Jill Biden of lying and orchestrating a “clear cover-up” regarding Joe Biden’s cognitive state.
On the podcast, Leavitt stated that Trump had fulfilled his two main campaign promises within six months. She claimed Trump had defeated inflation and secured the border, achieving these goals remarkably quickly. Leavitt noted that inflation was eliminated, prices were decreasing, and the economy was growing.
Leavitt emphasized Trump’s border security measures, claiming comprehensive control was achieved through executive power, despite critics arguing for the need for legislative action. She dismissed these claims, attributing the success to new leadership and public trust.
Leavitt also highlighted further achievements from Trump’s initial months in office. She noted that Trump had “already codified the entire MAGA agenda through Congress in six months with the one Big Beautiful Bill.” She also pointed to foreign policy successes, including the cessation and prevention of wars and the release of hostages from Gaza.
Leavitt mentioned that numerous trade deals had been completed, with more in progress. She characterized the administration’s accomplishments as noteworthy and indicated that Trump maintained a continuous work schedule. The administration was said to be enjoying governing and fulfilling campaign promises.
The Ruthless Podcast was the first outlet to occupy the designated new media seat during a January 2025 briefing. Host John Ashbrook criticized traditional media’s immigration coverage, questioning if legacy outlets were out of touch with Americans demanding border security.
The new media initiative has drawn interest from various content creators and alternative news sources. This program signifies a move away from traditional White House press access, with the administration arguing that many Americans, particularly younger demographics, consume news through podcasts, blogs, and social media rather than traditional television and newspapers.
During her July podcast appearance, Leavitt explained that Trump’s second term differs from his first. She noted that Trump previously faced investigations and impeachment proceedings, requiring him to balance governance with survival. In contrast, she described the current administration as vindicated and focused on implementing policies.
Leavitt reiterated the administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, stating that Trump delivers on his statements. She described this approach as enjoyable for the administration, enabling them to communicate their accomplishments while executing their policy agenda.
Leavitt’s media appearances reflect the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and traditional news outlets. The administration has adjusted media access, including rotating Pentagon press assignments and prioritizing alternative media over established organizations. These changes have drawn criticism from traditional media but support from conservative and non-traditional news sources.
At 27, Leavitt is the youngest White House press secretary. Her approach includes highlighting the administration’s successes and challenging traditional media practices by expanding access for alternative sources and directly criticizing established journalistic institutions.
