Who Is Karoline Leavitt?
Karoline Leavitt has become a household name in American politics, making history in January 2025 as the youngest White House Press Secretary at age 27, serving under President Donald Trump. Known for her fierce loyalty to Trump and sharp communication skills, Leavitt has risen rapidly in the conservative political sphere. Beyond her professional achievements, her personal life—particularly her marriage to real estate mogul Nicholas Riccio, who is 32 years her senior—has sparked public fascination and scrutiny. This article dives into Karoline Leavitt’s biography, net worth, career milestones, personal life, and the latest news surrounding her in 2025.
Karoline Leavitt: A Rising Star in American Politics
Biography: Early Life and Education
Born Karoline Claire Leavitt on August 24, 1997, in Atkinson, New Hampshire, Leavitt grew up with a passion for politics. She attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, graduating in 2015, before enrolling at Saint Anselm College in Goffstown, New Hampshire. In 2019, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Politics and Communication, laying the foundation for her media and political career. During college, Leavitt gained early experience through internships at Fox News and the White House press office during Trump’s first term, sharpening her skills in political communication.
Career: From Intern to White House Press Secretary
Karoline Leavitt’s career trajectory is nothing short of remarkable. Her early internships provided a springboard into high-profile roles, including serving as a presidential writer and assistant press secretary during Trump’s first administration from 2019 to 2021. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire’s 1st congressional district, winning the Republican primary but losing to Democratic incumbent Chris Pappas in the general election.
Undeterred, Leavitt joined Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign as national press secretary, a role that showcased her ability to handle intense media scrutiny. Her loyalty and effectiveness earned her the prestigious position of White House Press Secretary in January 2025, making her the youngest person ever to hold the role. Described by Trump as “smart, tough, and a highly effective communicator,” Leavitt has become a key figure in defending the administration’s policies.
Recent news highlights her handling of controversial press briefings, including a June 19, 2025, announcement that Trump would decide on U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict within two weeks. Critics have noted her combative style, with some claiming the pressure of the role has visibly aged her, sparking online debates.
Net Worth: A Lucrative Career and a Wealthy Spouse
While exact figures for Karoline Leavitt’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, her role as White House Press Secretary commands a substantial six-figure salary, estimated to be around $180,000 annually, based on standard government pay scales for the position. Her career in media and politics, combined with speaking engagements and campaign roles, likely contributes to her personal wealth.
Leavitt’s financial status is further bolstered by her marriage to Nicholas Riccio, a multimillionaire real estate developer from New Hampshire. Riccio, who began his entrepreneurial ventures over 30 years ago, owns multiple luxury properties and has an estimated net worth in the millions. The couple’s lavish lifestyle, including a craftsman colonial home in Washington, D.C., and multiple vacation properties, reflects their combined affluence.
Personal Life: Marriage to Nicholas Riccio and Family
Karoline Leavitt’s personal life has drawn significant attention due to her marriage to Nicholas Riccio, a 59-year-old real estate tycoon. The couple, who met during Leavitt’s 2022 congressional campaign, married in January 2025 and welcomed their son, Niko, in July 2024. Despite a 32-year age gap, Leavitt describes Riccio as her “rock” and “greatest supporter,” emphasizing his role in supporting her demanding career.
Their relationship has faced public scrutiny, with critics questioning the dynamics of their age difference and speculating about financial motivations. Leavitt has addressed these concerns, calling their marriage an “atypical love story” built on mutual respect and shared values. She frequently shares glimpses of their family life on Instagram, including a Father’s Day tribute to Riccio in June 2025, though some posts have been limited to Instagram Stories to avoid backlash.
Recent rumors have surfaced about Leavitt’s loyalty, with some gossip suggesting she might be “setting her sights” beyond Riccio, fueled by a June 2025 Instagram photo of her whispering to Trump. These claims remain unsubstantiated and appear to be speculative.
Latest News: Controversies and Public Perception
In June 2025, Karoline Leavitt remains a polarizing figure. Her press briefings have drawn both praise and criticism, with some lauding her poise under pressure and others decrying her “petulant” responses, such as blaming Joe Biden for Trump’s delays during a June 20, 2025, briefing. A viral moment on “America Now” saw Leavitt deftly counter a retired NFL star’s attempt to mock her age and experience, earning her the trending hashtag #LeavittClapback.
Her fashion choices and youthful appearance have also sparked commentary, with some praising her radiance and others claiming the stress of her role has aged her significantly. Leavitt’s unwavering devotion to Trump, including defending his policies on immigration and foreign affairs, continues to fuel debates about her role in the administration.
Suggested Authoritative Sources for Further Reading
To ensure accuracy and credibility, refer to the following sources for more information on Karoline Leavitt:
- TheCityCeleb.com – Detailed biography covering Leavitt’s education, career, and personal life.
- BusinessInsider.com – In-depth profile on Leavitt’s role as press secretary and her marriage.
- The US Sun – Updates on Leavitt’s family life and Riccio’s real estate empire.
- Yahoo News – Coverage of Leavitt’s age-gap marriage and recent press controversies.
- CNN Politics – Political news and statements from Leavitt as press secretary.
Always cross-check information from multiple reputable outlets, as some sources may carry biases or unverified claims.
