by Karoline Leavitt has quickly risen to prominence as a political figure, making history as the youngest White House Press Secretary. Her rapid ascent in the political landscape has captured widespread attention, sparking discussions about her career, personal life, and influence in the media.
She first gained recognition during Donald Trump’s presidency, serving as a key spokesperson and later becoming a central figure in his administration. With a strong conservative stance, sharp communication skills, and a bold presence, she has become a notable personality in American politics.
Beyond her professional career, Karoline’s personal life has also been a topic of curiosity. Her marriage to successful real estate mogul Nicholas Riccio, who is significantly older than her, has sparked media interest. Additionally, discussions surrounding her wealth, career trajectory, and rumored controversies have further fueled public intrigue.
This article takes a deep dive into Karoline Leavitt’s journey, exploring her background, career, marriage, and the reasons why she remains a trending figure in the political and media landscape.
Karoline Leavitt: Biography & Early Life
Karoline Claire Leavitt was born on August 24, 1997, in Atkinson, New Hampshire. She attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications and political science from Saint Anselm College in 2019.
During her college years, she was active in political discussions and founded the school’s first broadcasting club.
Family & Religion
Leavitt was raised in a Catholic family in Atkinson, New Hampshire. Her family owned an ice cream shop and a used truck dealership in Plaistow, New Hampshire. Her upbringing in a business-oriented family instilled in her values of hard work and community service.
These early experiences in a close-knit family and active participation in educational initiatives laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in politics and public service.
Karoline Leavitt’s Husband: Who is Nicholas Riccio?
Who is He?
Nicholas Riccio is a successful real estate entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to property development.
He built a multimillion-dollar business, Riccio Enterprises LLC, with properties spanning from Boston to New Hampshire’s White Mountains. His journey from humble beginnings to a prominent figure in real estate is noteworthy.
Net Worth & Business Ventures
Riccio’s real estate ventures have amassed him a substantial fortune. He owns numerous properties, including multiple buildings and living units, contributing to his estimated net worth of $45 million.
Age Difference Controversy
The marriage between Riccio and Karoline Leavitt has attracted public attention due to their significant age difference. Riccio is over 30 years older than Leavitt, leading to discussions and media coverage about their age gap.
How They Met & Got Engaged
Leavitt and Riccio met through a mutual friend at a political function. Despite Riccio’s introverted nature and absence from social media, their connection grew, leading to their engagement on Christmas Day in 2023. Leavitt shared the news on Instagram, expressing her overwhelming joy and gratitude.
Wedding Details & Private Life
The couple has kept the specifics of their wedding private, with limited public information available. Leavitt’s Instagram bio includes the term “wife,” indicating their marital status.
They welcomed their son, Nicholas Robert, in July 2024. Leavitt often shares glimpses of their family life on social media, expressing her love and appreciation for her husband and son.
Despite public interest and media scrutiny, Leavitt and Riccio maintain a level of privacy regarding their personal lives, focusing on their family and professional commitments.
Do They Have Kids?
Yes, Karoline Leavitt and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, have a son named Nicholas Robert. He was born in July 2024.
Balancing Motherhood and Career
After the birth of her son, Leavitt planned to take maternity leave. However, following an attempted assassination of Donald Trump, she decided to return to her professional duties earlier than planned.
This decision highlights her dedication to her role and her ability to balance the demands of motherhood with her responsibilities as White House Press Secretary.
Leavitt has been vocal about the challenges and rewards of being a working mother in a high-profile political position. She often shares insights into her experiences, emphasizing the importance of family support and time management in maintaining this balance.
Karoline Leavitt’s Career & White House Journey
From Trump’s Intern to Press Secretary
Karoline Leavitt began her political career as an intern in the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence during President Donald Trump’s first term.
After graduating from Saint Anselm College in 2019, she returned to the White House, serving as an assistant press secretary under Kayleigh McEnany. In this role, she honed her communication skills and gained valuable experience in political messaging.
Following the conclusion of Trump’s first term, Leavitt became the communications director for Representative Elise Stefanik of New York, further expanding her experience in political communications.
In November 2024, President Trump appointed Leavitt as the White House press secretary for his second term, making her the youngest individual to hold this position at 27 years old.
Her Role in the 2024 Presidential Campaign
During the 2024 presidential campaign, Leavitt served as the national press secretary for Donald Trump’s re-election bid. In this capacity, she was responsible for managing media relations, crafting campaign messages, and serving as a spokesperson for the campaign.
Her efforts contributed to shaping the campaign’s communication strategy and engaging with both traditional and new media outlets.
Did She Run for Congress?
Yes, in 2022, Karoline Leavitt announced her candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in New Hampshire’s 1st congressional district. She campaigned on conservative values, emphasizing reduced taxes, strong law enforcement, and gun rights.
Leavitt won the Republican primary in an upset victory but was defeated in the general election by Democratic incumbent Chris Pappas. After her congressional run, she continued her political career, eventually becoming the White House press secretary.
Leavitt’s journey from a White House intern to the youngest press secretary in history highlights her rapid ascent in American politics and her dedication to public service.
Net Worth, Salary & Investments
As of 2025, Karoline Leavitt’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her various roles in politics and media.
Annual Salary:
In her role as White House Press Secretary, Leavitt earns an annual salary of approximately $180,000. This figure aligns with the compensation received by her predecessors in the same position.
Income Sources:
Leavitt’s income is derived from multiple avenues:
Political Roles: Serving in various capacities within the political sphere has provided her with substantial earnings.
Media Appearances: As a conservative commentator, she has been featured on networks such as Fox News and Newsmax, contributing to her income.
Consulting Work: Leavitt has engaged in political consulting, advising candidates and organizations, which has added to her financial portfolio.
These combined income streams have significantly contributed to her current net worth.
Controversies & Public Perception
Drunk Driving & Film Claims
As of now, there are no substantiated reports or credible evidence linking Karoline Leavitt to any drunk driving incidents or related film claims. These appear to be unfounded rumors without basis in verified information.
Public Opinion & Media Scrutiny
Karoline Leavitt’s appointment as the youngest White House Press Secretary at 27 has garnered significant media attention. Her confident and poised communication style has been highlighted as a key factor in her effectiveness.
Eric Schiffer, a public relations expert, noted that her clear and positive communication has a “magical element” that simplifies complex subjects, contributing to her success.
However, her tenure has not been without criticism. Some media outlets have scrutinized her unwavering defense of President Trump’s policies, with comparisons to press strategies in more authoritarian regimes.
For instance, The Guardian commented on her seamless delivery and staunch loyalty to the president, suggesting a departure from traditional press secretary roles.
Leavitt’s approach to media relations includes integrating “new media voices” such as bloggers and podcasters into the briefing room, aiming to address the declining trust among young Americans in traditional media.
This strategy reflects an adaptation to changing media consumption habits and an effort to broaden the administration’s communication channels.
Public opinion on Leavitt is divided. Supporters praise her as a “breath of fresh air” and a representative voice for Gen Z Republicans, while critics express concerns over her perceived partisanship and the potential implications for press freedom.
Her rapid rise in politics and media prominence continues to be a subject of both commendation and critique.
In summary, while Karoline Leavitt has been effective in her role as Press Secretary, she remains a polarizing figure, with public perception shaped by both her professional conduct and the broader political context.
Conclusion
Karoline Leavitt’s rise from a White House intern to the youngest Press Secretary at 27 reflects her rapid political ascent. Her strong communication skills and loyalty to Trump’s administration have solidified her role in conservative politics.
Her marriage to real estate mogul Nicholas Riccio, despite their 32-year age gap, has drawn public interest. The couple welcomed their son, Nicholas Robert, in July 2024, and she returned to work shortly after.
Looking ahead, Leavitt is expected to remain a key political figure. Balancing family and career, she represents a new generation of leadership in conservative politics.
FAQ
1. When did Karoline Leavitt get married?
Karoline Leavitt and Nicholas Riccio got engaged on Christmas Day in 2023. While the exact date of their wedding has not been publicly disclosed, Leavitt’s Instagram bio includes the term “wife,” indicating that they are married.
2. Where does she live now?
As of January 2025, Karoline Leavitt resides in Washington, D.C., fulfilling her duties as the White House Press Secretary. Previously, she was based in her hometown of Atkinson, New Hampshire.
3. How tall is she?
Karoline Leavitt’s height is approximately 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters).
4. What is her real net worth?
As of 2025, Karoline Leavitt’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her various roles in politics and media.
5. How did she meet Nicholas Riccio?
Karoline Leavitt and Nicholas Riccio met through a mutual friend at a political function. Despite Riccio’s introverted nature and absence from social media, their connection grew, leading to their engagement on Christmas Day in 2023.
6. Is she related to Trump?
No, Karoline Leavitt is not related to former President Donald Trump. Their association is strictly professional, stemming from her roles within his administration and campaign.
7. How old is her son?
Karoline Leavitt’s son, Nicholas Robert, was born on July 10, 2024. As of January 2025, he is approximately six months old.
8. Why is she controversial?
Karoline Leavitt has been a subject of controversy due to several factors:
Age and Position: At 27, she became the youngest White House Press Secretary in history, leading to discussions about her experience and qualifications.
Marriage Age Gap: Her marriage to Nicholas Riccio, who is over 30 years her senior, has attracted media attention and public scrutiny.
Political Stance: Leavitt’s unwavering support for former President Trump and her assertive communication style have polarized public opinion, with some praising her dedication and others criticizing her approach.
These aspects of her personal and professional life have contributed to her being a polarizing figure in the public eye.
