Karoline Leavitt embodies the convergence of outspoken Gen Z ambition and bold media strategy. As the youngest person to hold her office, managing communications for a polarizing administration while balancing motherhood, she’s become a trailblazer.
With her potent blend of political know-how, communication skill, and strategic positioning, she’s well-situated both for press leadership and potential future elected roles.
Karoline Leavitt Biography
Karoline Claire Leavittt was born on August 24, 1997, in Atkinson, New Hampshire, Karoline Leavitt grew up as the youngest of four children in a close-knit, entrepreneurial Catholic family; her father runs a used-truck dealership and her mother, alongside siblings, managed a Baskin-Robbins and ice cream business.
She attended Central Catholic High School in Massachusetts, excelling as an Eagle-Tribune softball All-Star.
In 2015, she began studies at Saint Anselm College, earned a BA in Politics and Communications in 2019, founded the college broadcast club, wrote for the student paper, and interned at Fox News and WMUR-TV.
Career Breakthrough in Media & Politics
After college, Leavitt joined the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence under Trump, advancing to Associate Director. In June 2020, she became an Assistant White House Press Secretary working with Kayleigh McEnany, briefly testing positive for COVID-19 during the Rose Garden event.
In early 2021, she served as Communications Director for Rep. Elise Stefanik. In 2022, she ran for New Hampshire’s 1st congressional district as a pro-Trump Republican, winning the primary but losing to Democrat Chris Pappas.
Rise to National Spotlight
From 2023, Leavitt became National Press Secretary for Trump’s 2024 campaign, then named White House Press Secretary starting January 20, 2025; the youngest ever to hold the position at 27.
In her first briefing (Jan 28, 2025), she emphasized opening the podium to podcasters and social media creatives alongside traditional outlets. Karoline Leavitt is known for her confident, combative style, she has navigated sensitive policy issues and made bold moves like tightening press accreditation and banning certain outlets.
Personal Life & Relationships
Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, an older real-estate professional; their marriage took place in January 2025. They welcomed their son Nicholas Robert in July 2024, just before an assassination attempt on Trump. She returned to work within days, citing her role as a model for working mothers.
Style & Media Strategy
Leavitt is known for her polished, direct style described as “breath of fresh air” and “magical” communication favored by Gen Z Republicans. She consistently defended Trump-first narratives and distanced herself from mainstream media in her approach.
Analysts suggest that her rapid ascent and media savvy position her well for future high office, possibly governor of New Hampshire or a career in broadcast.
Net Worth & Public Profile
Her net worth is estimated between $1 million and $6 million as of mid-2025, derived from her White House salary (~$200–220k), campaign roles, investments in real estate/assets, and consulting/speaking opportunities.
Sources vary: some estimate $1–5M, others list $6M based on inheritance and ownership in family enterprises.
Key Achievements & Milestones
- Youngest-ever White House Press Secretary at age 27.
- Broke new ground by including non-traditional media in briefings.
- Ran high-profile primary campaign victory before 2022 election.
- Demonstrated resilience and commitment by returning to work soon after childbirth.
