Karoline Leavitt's Vanity Fair Close-Up Sparks Outrage: 'Shameful'

The Controversy Surrounding Vanity Fair's Photoshoot of White House Officials

A recent photoshoot conducted by Vanity Fair featuring several high-ranking officials in the Trump administration has sparked a significant backlash, particularly regarding the portrayal of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. The images, which were shared widely on social media, included extreme close-ups of Leavitt’s face, leading to a mix of reactions from the public and critics.

Public Reaction and Support for Leavitt

Fans of Leavitt have quickly come to her defense, arguing that the publication was biased against Trump's staff. Many users on social media labeled the article as "liberal propaganda" and criticized it as a "sorry excuse for journalism." Comments ranged from expressing disbelief at how the photos were taken to praising Leavitt's beauty and professionalism.

One user wrote: “That is insane, she's gorgeous lol they had to work hard to make it look so unbelievable.” Another remarked: “Karoline should take it as a compliment. They're clearly threatened by her.”

Supporters also pointed out that the publication’s coverage of Biden’s team was more favorable. One commenter noted: “Now a staff member of Biden's or Obama's would be 'icons, stars in Dem party.'"

Criticisms of the Photos

While some praised the photos, others were less kind. On Vanity Fair’s Instagram page, several users mocked Leavitt, with one asking: “She's 28 btw… why does she look 50?” Another user exclaimed: “I am DECEASED!!!! The way I would enter a state of mania if this kind of closeup was posted of me!!! This will live forever and I LOVE it!!!!”

Some comments suggested that the photos highlighted what appeared to be lip-filler injection marks around Leavitt’s mouth. One reader asked: “Are those injection prick marks?” while another added: “Genius. The injection marks really sing in this one!”

Insights into Leavitt's Makeup Routine

In September, a plastic surgeon weighed in on rumors surrounding Leavitt’s appearance, stating that any cosmetic enhancements she may have had are subtle. Dr. Jennifer Harrington, a Minnesota-based surgeon, noted that Leavitt looked “amazing” and appeared to have enhanced fullness in her lips.

Leavitt has also shared details about her makeup routine. In a video resurfaced earlier in the year, she revealed the products she uses for television appearances. These included a $48 Plump and Prime Serum by Too Faced Cosmetics, along with two foundations from Fenty Beauty and Too Faced.

She also emphasized the importance of contouring, using a contour stick on her cheekbones, under her chin, and on her forehead, followed by a shimmering powder bronzer by Too Faced.

The Wiles Profile and Its Impact

The Vanity Fair profile of Susie Wiles, the Chief of Staff, generated a firestorm over her candid criticism of Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other members of the administration. Wiles likened Trump to her late alcoholic father and legendary sportscaster Pat Summerall, noting that the president has “an alcoholic's personality.”

Trump responded to the article, stating that he knew what Wiles was trying to say but did not comment on the specific claims. He emphasized that he does not drink and has spoken about losing his older brother to addiction and alcoholism.

Wiles also discussed Vice President JD Vance, noting his late MAGA conversion and early critiques of Trump. She described him as “a conspiracy theorist for a decade.”

Leavitt's Response to the Controversy

Leavitt addressed the controversy on the White House driveway, calling the article an example of disingenuous reporting. She criticized the reporter for taking the chief of staff's words out of context and omitting important facts.

“Unfortunately, this is another example of disingenuous reporting,” Leavitt said. “You will leave out important context, leave out comments and facts.”

The controversy raises questions about the accuracy and fairness of the coverage, as well as the broader implications for how journalists portray political figures.