Beni Rae Harmony Joins Trump’s Communications Team Amid Controversy

Donald Trump has added Beni Rae Harmony, a 24-year-old former journalist, to his communications team as an assistant press secretary. This comes as the search for a replacement for Karoline Leavitt, who resigned as press secretary in August, continues. Harmony’s appointment has stirred discussion after a photograph of her from 2021, wearing a ‘F*** Joe Biden’ T-shirt and holding a rifle, went viral on social media.

Harmony’s Announcement

In a statement shared on X, Harmony expressed her enthusiasm for joining the White House team, stating her commitment to serving the American people and advocating for the American Dream with an ‘America First’ approach.

Background of Beni Rae Harmony

Harmony previously worked as a senior correspondent for Real America’s Voice, a media outlet linked to Steve Bannon. She has held positions as a press aide for Jack Posobiec of Turning Point USA and as a deputy press secretary for Republican Congressmen Paul Gosar and Matt Gaetz.

Harmony has covered numerous presidential trips for Real America’s Voice, including a visit to Ireland where she was part of the White House press corps.

Social Media Attention

Following her appointment, various social media posts from Harmony’s past were circulated, including the contentious photograph from the Christmas holiday in 2021. The image was originally shared by Jarome Bell, a former Republican House candidate.

Harmony seemed to validate the photo’s authenticity, reposting a similar image and clarifying her relationship with the relative in the picture.

Previous Public Incidents

Harmony attracted attention in right-wing circles in 2025 after giving an emotional homage to Charlie Kirk, describing him as a mentor who motivated her career aspirations. At the time, she was an anchor on WICS NewsChannel 20 in Springfield, Illinois.

Claims emerged that Harmony faced suspension over the tribute, although Heather Nodine, the station’s news director, refuted these allegations, stating Harmony was not a journalist and had not worked in the news department.