At 27, Karoline Leavitt has already made history as the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history.

Serving under President Donald Trump’s second non-consecutive term, Leavitt’s professional achievements are complemented by a deeply personal journey that includes a significant age-gap marriage and the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding political career.

Karoline Leavitt in the White House briefing room.

A Political Union: Meeting Nicholas Riccio

Leavitt’s relationship with Nicholas Riccio, a 59-year-old real estate developer from New Hampshire, began in 2022 during her congressional campaign. A mutual friend invited Riccio to an event at a restaurant he owned in New Hampshire, where Leavitt was speaking.

Their initial acquaintance blossomed into a romantic relationship, leading to their engagement in December 2023 and marriage in January 2025, just days before President Trump’s second inauguration .

Despite their 32-year age difference, Leavitt describes their relationship as “atypical but incredibly supportive.” She credits Riccio as her “greatest supporter, best friend, and rock,” emphasizing his unwavering encouragement of her professional ambitions .

 

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Parenthood Amidst Political Turmoil

The couple welcomed their son, Nicholas Robert Riccio, affectionately known as “Niko,” on July 10, 2024. Leavitt expressed her profound joy on social media, stating, “It’s true when they say there’s nothing comparable to the love you feel for your child. My heart has grown bigger than I ever imagined possible” .

Just days after Niko’s birth, Leavitt returned to work following an assassination attempt on President Trump in Butler County, Pennsylvania. She chose to shorten her maternity leave, driven by a sense of duty to be present during a critical moment in the administration’s history .

 

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Balancing Family Life with a High-Profile Career

Despite her prominent role, Leavitt maintains a relatively private personal life. She often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, including photos of Niko at the White House and during family outings. Leavitt has openly discussed the challenges of being a working mother, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system and acknowledging the sacrifices required to manage both roles effectively .

Nicholas Riccio: From Humble Beginnings to Real Estate Success

Nicholas Riccio’s journey to success is a testament to resilience and determination. Raised in Hudson, New Hampshire, Riccio experienced homelessness in his youth. He attended Plymouth State University and later pursued a career in real estate, founding Riccio Enterprises LLC. Today, he owns over 15 buildings in Hampton Beach and has been described as a “local legend” for his investments in revitalizing underdeveloped areas .

Riccio’s financial success has enabled him to support Leavitt’s political endeavors, including funding her 2022 congressional campaign. Despite his significant wealth, he remains a private figure, preferring to stay out of the public eye while being a steadfast supporter of his wife’s career .

 

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Looking Ahead

As Karoline Leavitt continues to navigate the complexities of her role as White House press secretary, she remains committed to her family and her professional responsibilities. With the unwavering support of her husband, Nicholas Riccio, Leavitt exemplifies the balancing act many working parents face, demonstrating that personal and professional lives can coexist harmoniously even in the most demanding of careers.