White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has shared a heartwarming personal update with the public, announcing that she and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, are expecting their second child. The news, which broke on December 26, 2025, has sparked a wave of congratulations from colleagues, supporters, and the political community at large. In a moving social media post, the 28 year old New Hampshire native described the pregnancy as "the greatest Christmas gift" her family could have asked for. This announcement not only marks a joyful milestone for her family but also a historic moment for the United States government.

Leavitt took to her official Instagram account to share the news, posting a series of photos of herself posing in front of a festive Christmas tree while cradling her growing baby bump. In the caption, she revealed that the couple is expecting a baby girl, due in May 2026. She expressed her profound excitement about expanding their family and specifically mentioned how much she looks forward to seeing her firstborn son, Nicholas "Niko" Robert Riccio, step into the role of a big brother. Her son Niko was born in July 2024, just months before her appointment to one of the most high profile roles in Washington.

Making History in the West Wing

Beyond the personal joy of the announcement, Karoline Leavitt is set to make history as the first White House Press Secretary to serve while pregnant. While other women have held the position, none have navigated the intense daily demands of the briefing room and the 24 hour news cycle during a pregnancy. A senior White House official confirmed shortly after the announcement that Leavitt intends to remain in her position throughout her pregnancy. This decision underscores her commitment to her professional duties while balancing her responsibilities as a mother.

Leavitt has frequently spoken about the importance of family and faith in her life. In her announcement, she credited God for the "blessing of motherhood," calling it the closest thing to "Heaven on Earth." She also extended her gratitude to President Donald Trump and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles for fostering what she described as a "pro-family environment" within the administration. According to Leavitt, many of her colleagues in the West Wing also have young children, creating a supportive network for those balancing high pressure careers with parenting.

A Career Defined by Resilience and Speed

Karoline Leavitt’s rise through the political ranks has been nothing short of meteoric. Born and raised in Atkinson, New Hampshire, she attended Saint Anselm College where she played softball and began her journey into political communication. After serving as an assistant press secretary during the first Trump administration and later as a spokesperson for Representative Elise Stefanik, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire at the age of 25. Although she did not win the general election, her performance solidified her status as a rising star in the Republican party.

Her ability to handle the spotlight was further tested during the 2024 presidential campaign, where she served as the national press secretary. During that time, she famously returned to the campaign trail just weeks after giving birth to her son Niko, citing the historic nature of the election as her motivation. Now, as the youngest White House Press Secretary in history, her decision to remain at the podium during her second pregnancy serves as a modern example of professional and personal integration.

Family Life and the Road Ahead

The news has also refocused attention on Leavitt’s personal life and her "atypical love story" with husband Nicholas Riccio. Riccio, a successful real estate investor who is 32 years her senior, has been described by Leavitt as her "rock" and an "incredibly hands on father." The couple married in January 2025, just before the second inauguration of President Trump. While their age gap has occasionally been a topic of social media discussion, Leavitt has consistently praised her husband for his unwavering support of her demanding career.

As the calendar turns toward 2026, Leavitt is preparing for what she calls an "amazing year." Between the arrival of her daughter in May and the ongoing legislative and communication goals of the administration, her schedule is poised to be more demanding than ever. However, her public statements suggest she is more than ready for the challenge. With a supportive husband, a "pro-family" workplace, and a deep sense of purpose, Leavitt is prepared to continue her historic tenure at the White House while embracing the joys of becoming a "girl mom."

The announcement serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of leadership in the modern era, where personal milestones like pregnancy are celebrated alongside professional achievements. As Leavitt continues to stand behind the lectern in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room, she will be doing so not just as a spokesperson for the President, but as a trailblazer for mothers in politics.