While the position of White House press secretary is still unfilled, Donald Trump has added a new member to his communications team. Beni Rae Harmony, a 24-year-old with a background in journalism, will serve as an assistant press secretary. Karoline Leavitt, the former press secretary, stepped down in August, leaving the position vacant. Harmony’s appointment has generated discussion, especially as details about her background have come to light.
Social Media Spotlight
This weekend, Harmony attracted attention when a 2021 holiday photo of her wearing a provocative T-shirt and holding a rifle circulated on social media. She expressed her enthusiasm for her new role in a statement on the platform X, saying she looks forward to serving the country and promoting the “America First” agenda.
Background and Experience
Harmony’s career pathway includes a stint at Real America’s Voice, a media outlet originally linked to Steve Bannon. Her LinkedIn profile notes prior experience as a press aide with Turning Point USA and as a deputy press secretary for Republican Congressmen Paul Gosar and Matt Gaetz. Before her White House role, she covered Trump’s travels, including a recent trip to Ireland as part of the press corps.
With over 77,000 Instagram followers, Harmony has shared her experiences traveling with and reporting on Trump. Her appointment comes amid contentious relations between Trump and the media, highlighted by a temporary ban on CNN and other outlets from the White House, which a federal judge later blocked. Additionally, Trump’s interactions with female journalists have often been fraught.
The Viral 2021 Photo
After announcing her White House role, social media users unearthed past posts, notably a 2021 photo of Harmony wearing a T-shirt with an inflammatory message about Joe Biden. The image was originally posted by former Republican House candidate Jarome Bell and has been confirmed by Harmony through a follow-up post. She also clarified a comment about the photo, stating the other person was her uncle.
In 2025, Harmony became notable in right-wing circles after an emotional tribute to Charlie Kirk, which led to claims of her suspension from WICS NewsChannel 20 in Springfield, Illinois. Heather Nodine, the news director, refuted these claims, noting Harmony was not part of their news department. Newsweek reached out to Harmony for comments, as well as contacting the White House via email.