Karoline Leavitt in Donald Trump's phone number joke as she announces 'my last gaggle'

Donald Trump’s unusually direct line to the media is raising eyebrows again and this time, even the White House press secretary leaned into the moment with a bit of humor.

Karoline Leavitt, who is expecting to give birth to her second child next week, wrapped up what may be her final press briefing before maternity leave with a lighthearted remark. She joked that many reporters already have Trump’s personal phone number, suggesting they won’t struggle to get updates while she’s away. In her words, there’s little risk of a “shortage of statements and news” coming out of the White House.

Her comment reflects a broader reality that’s been developing over recent weeks. Trump has reportedly spoken directly with dozens of journalists more than 30 since late February often taking calls himself and offering spontaneous, unscripted responses. That kind of access is highly unusual for a sitting president and stands in contrast to the more controlled communication style typically seen in modern administrations.

Several reporters have described being surprised by how easily they were able to reach him. BBC North America editor Sarah Smith, for example, recounted dialing his number and hearing him answer casually with a simple “hello.” The conversation quickly turned into an interview covering topics like tensions in Iran and U.S.-UK relations.

This open-phone approach has made Trump a constant presence in the news cycle. A brief call can quickly turn into a headline, especially when he shares blunt or controversial opinions. In one recent conversation with a Sky News correspondent, he commented on the UK’s domestic situation and discussed his expectations for an upcoming visit from King Charles and Queen Camilla, downplaying any tension with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Leavitt’s parting remark, while playful, underscores a serious point: when a president is this accessible, the traditional role of press briefings shifts. Instead of relying solely on official channels, journalists can go straight to the source something that keeps the news flow fast, but also less filtered.

As she steps away temporarily, it seems the press corps won’t have to look far for their next quote.