Karoline Leavitt, 27, has become the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history, serving under President Donald Trump since January 20, 2025.
Despite her high-profile career, public attention recently focused on her personal life—specifically the 32-year age gap with her husband, real estate developer Nicholas Riccio.
Leavitt addressed the difference in a recent appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, describing their relationship as “very atypical” but praising her husband as her support system and anchor.
Riccio, now 59, met Leavitt during her 2022 congressional campaign in New Hampshire. A mutual friend hosted the event where Riccio, then a political supporter, was invited, and they connected from there.
They became engaged in December 2023 and welcomed their son, Nicholas Robert “Niko” Riccio, in July 2024.
Just days after Niko’s birth, an assassination attempt on Trump took place, prompting Leavitt to return from maternity leave and resume her duties in support of the administration.
The couple married in early January 2025—mere days before Trump’s second inauguration.
In her interview with Megyn Kelly, Leavitt said, “He is my greatest supporter, he’s my best friend, and he’s my rock.” She acknowledged initial hesitation about the age gap but emphasised Riccio’s unwavering belief in her career ambitions.
Her voice carried warmth as she added, “I walked into your life and it’s been a circus ever since, but God bless him because he’s fully on board.”
Leavitt’s role as press secretary has skyrocketed in visibility. After rising through Republican communications—including a stint with MAGA Inc. and working alongside Elise Stefanik—she became national press secretary for Trump’s 2024 campaign before replacing Karine Jean‑Pierre in the White House briefing room.
For a woman just 27, her portfolio includes firsts: youngest ever to serve in the role and one of the most polarising communicators in recent memory.
Media attention to her marriage intensified after her public comment on the age gap. Columnists called it a symbolic example of modern political power marriages—signalling that traditional timelines are shifting in public life.
While some critics described the relationship as unconventional, others praised it as a union rooted in mutual trust and practical support.
Leavitt’s professionalism has remained consistent. Known for favouring new-media voices and limiting legacy outlets’ access to press briefings, she embraced digital-first communication strategies aligned with Trumpism’s evolving communication style.
She’s navigated controversy with composure, including disputes over briefing-room access and public debate about public institutions—often speaking bluntly during her appearances.
Riccio’s background also commands attention. A real estate magnate from New Hampshire, he owns multiple beachfront properties in Hampton Beach. His support allowed Leavitt to pursue her political ambitions without financial strain.
Leavitt called him “incredible” on air and noted that while he is introverted and avoids the spotlight, he’s made himself available in the most important ways.
When asked by Kelly about social media interest in their unusual pairing, Leavitt said she didn’t feel compelled to post about Riccio often, valuing his comfort over optics.
She emphasised private values over public spectacle—a theme consistent with her approach to politics and parenthood.
Critics seized on the symbolism. Business Insider editorialised that the marriage, while deeply personal, fits broader patterns in high-level political circles where age gaps are less scrutinised than in the public discourse on consent or culture.
The Daily Beast described Leavitt’s comment as seismic for its transparency, calling out the sharp contrast between her measured tone and the often sensationalized coverage of political marriages.
As Leavitt navigates life as a new mother with responsibilities as press secretary, supporters praise her multitasking and dependability. She returned to work hours after the assassination attempt on Trump, embodying what she called “a sense of duty to be present in this historic moment.”
Her marriage, disclosure, and career arc raise questions about how modern partnerships support high‑pressure public roles.
She described her husband as a “best dad” and said their son had given her heartless joy ahead of a chaotic political schedule.
Karoline Leavitt termed their relationship “a very atypical love story,” and called her husband “her rock,” expressing profound respect for his role amid her skyrocketing political profile.