Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, has found herself at the center of a storm yet again — but this time, it wasn’t her words from the podium alone that sparked the uproar. It was a photo, a designer handbag, and a moment of apparent contradiction that lit up the internet and reignited debate about public image, messaging, and the blurred line between personal style and political symbolism.

Since returning to her role in the Trump administration shortly after giving birth, Leavitt has emerged as one of the most prominent voices in Washington. At just 27, she has become a key face of President Donald Trump’s second term, known for her unflinching rhetoric and combative approach with the press. Her ability to stand toe-to-toe with reporters — often echoing Trump’s unapologetic tone — has won praise from conservative circles while drawing ire from critics across the political aisle.

The incident that triggered this latest round of attention unfolded at a press briefing in late March, when Leavitt responded to controversial remarks made by French politician Raphaël Glucksmann, who suggested the U.S. no longer embodied the values symbolized by the Statue of Liberty. Leavitt’s answer was swift and sharp. “Absolutely not,” she said regarding any notion of returning the statue, adding pointedly, “It’s only because of the United States of America that the French are not speaking German right now.”