At just 27 years old, Karoline Leavitt has made history as the youngest-ever White House press secretary. Rising through Republican political circles, she gained experience working with Kayleigh McEnany and Rep. Elise Stefanik before joining Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. Her career highlights include interning at the White House during Trump’s first term, running for Congress in New Hampshire, and managing press duties during a high-profile trial. In her personal life, Leavitt shares an unconventional love story with her husband, Nicholas Riccio, a real-estate developer over three decades her senior.
Born and raised in Atkinson, New Hampshire, Leavitt developed a strong work ethic early on by helping out at her parents' ice cream stand. After attending Central Catholic High School, she pursued higher education at Saint Anselm College, graduating in 2019 with degrees in politics and communication. During college, she balanced academics with athletics, playing softball and engaging in various extracurricular activities such as founding a broadcasting club and volunteering at political institutes. Her internship at the White House during Trump’s initial presidency marked the beginning of her ascent into national politics.
Following graduation, Leavitt joined the White House team under then-press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, where she honed her skills preparing for daily briefings. When Trump left office in 2021, she transitioned to serve as Rep. Elise Stefanik’s director of communications, further expanding her network within Republican leadership. In 2022, Leavitt decided to run for Congress in New Hampshire’s 1st congressional district but ultimately lost to Democratic incumbent Chris Pappas. Undeterred, she rejoined the political arena in 2024 as Trump’s national press secretary, handling media relations during his re-election campaign and subsequent hush-money trial.
Upon Trump’s victory in the 2024 election, Leavitt was appointed as the youngest White House press secretary, introducing innovative changes like reserving a "new media seat" for independent content creators in the briefing room. Balancing her demanding role with motherhood, she returned to work mere days after giving birth to her son, Niko, citing duty and dedication to historic events unfolding around her. Leavitt married Nicholas Riccio, whom she met during her congressional campaign, in January 2025, embracing what she describes as an "atypical love story." Despite their significant age difference, Riccio plays a supportive role in both her professional and personal endeavors.
Karoline Leavitt’s journey exemplifies rapid ascension in the world of politics, driven by ambition and resilience. From scooping ice cream in her hometown to becoming a key figure in the White House, her path underscores adaptability and determination. As she continues to navigate the complexities of her role, Leavitt remains committed to advancing Republican principles while balancing family responsibilities. Her unique experiences highlight how diverse backgrounds contribute to shaping modern American politics.