Announcement Details

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced her second pregnancy on Instagram Friday, December 26, 2025, calling it “the most wonderful Christmas present we could ever hope for — a baby girl due in May 2026.” The post featured photos of Leavitt, 28, beside a Christmas tree with an ultrasound image, cradling her baby bump in a white sweater dress. She expressed overflowing gratitude to God for motherhood, describing it as “the closest experience to Heaven on Earth,” and highlighted excitement for her son Niko to become a big brother.​

Family Background

Leavitt and husband Nicholas Riccio, 60, welcomed their first child, Nicholas “Niko” Robert Riccio, in July 2024, shortly before President Trump’s re-election. The couple met during her 2022 congressional bid in New Hampshire; they married in January 2025, days before Trump’s inauguration. Leavitt has praised Riccio as her biggest supporter, closest friend, and exceptional father, noting initial family challenges due to their 32-year age gap but eventual acceptance.​

Professional Context

As the youngest White House press secretary, Leavitt served Trump’s 2024 campaign and first-term press office before her current role since January 2025. She thanked President Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles for fostering a “family-friendly atmosphere” in the White House, crediting their support amid her demanding career. Leavitt returned to work days after Niko’s birth following a Trump assassination attempt; no details emerged on maternity leave plans, though officials indicate she will continue duties. This marks her as potentially the first pregnant press secretary in U.S. history.​​

Public Reaction

The announcement drew widespread media coverage from NBC, CNN, USA Today, and others, focusing on joy amid her high-profile role. Online discourse noted the couple’s age difference, but Leavitt emphasized their strong bond in prior interviews like Megyn Kelly’s podcast. Coverage highlighted her balancing act of motherhood and politics in Trump’s administration.