Polity & Governance
US presidential aide reports tense exchange with Karoline Leavitt aboard Marine One
What happened
A senior aide to former US President Donald Trump reported a tense three-word exchange with New Hampshire congressional candidate Karoline Leavitt aboard Marine One on August 13, 2026. The aide described the interaction as 'tense' after Leavitt allegedly told him, 'Don't like it.' The incident occurred during an official flight, raising questions about intra-party dynamics ahead of upcoming elections.
Key facts
The exchange occurred aboard Marine One on August 13, 2026, during an official flight.
Leavitt is challenging incumbent Annie Kuster in New Hampshire’s 2nd congressional district in the 2026 midterm elections.
The aide described the interaction as 'tense' after Leavitt allegedly said, 'Don’t like it.' The incident was reported by the aide to The Times of India on August 14, 2026.
Context
Marine One is the official helicopter of the US President, used for short-distance travel. Karoline Leavitt is a Republican candidate for New Hampshire's 2nd congressional district, running in the 2026 midterm elections. The aide, whose identity was not disclosed, is a senior member of Trump’s campaign or transition team. Tensions within the Republican Party have been noted in recent months over policy disagreements and candidate endorsements.