But the news network still appeared to frame the apparent lightheartedness as a remote possibility.

“Another name has entered the mix,” CNN wrote. “Following the media firestorm around Natalie Harp, the president has joked to advisers that maybe he would tap his executive assistant for the role, according to one source.”

It doesn’t sound that crazy.

She’s young, blond and apparently devoted to the president just like, well....

Karoline Leavitt

Anadolu via Getty Images

Kayleigh McEnany

Alex Wong via Getty Images

... Leavitt and first-term predecessor Kayleigh McEnany.

But CNN made it clear that its resident GOP heel Scott Jennings remains the “early favorite” for the job. Jennings, incidentally, came under criticism for his attempts to defend Harp on the news network.

Harp is a frequent companion of the president who reportedly accompanied him on the actual plane carrying him during the recent Air Force One switch. Their relationship has sparked scrutiny and a viral barb by Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.).

Other uncomfortable details have also emerged, including a report that she worked closely with the president at the White House for nearly a year while refusing to undergo routine security clearance.