What to Know About Leavitt’s Husband Nicholas Riccio Amid White House Exit

Karoline Leavitt's departure as White House Press Secretary marks a significant shift in the administration's communications strategy. At 28, she is the youngest person ever to hold the position, and her exit prompts questions about the role's future and the dynamics of her household. Leavitt cites motherhood and the demands of raising two young children as the primary reason for her exit, emphasizing that she cannot perform her duties to the best of her ability while fulfilling the constant obligations of the job.

Her husband, Nicholas Riccio, a real estate developer from New Hampshire, maintains a low public profile despite his substantial property portfolio estimated at around $6 million. Riccio, who grew up in a financially unstable household and experienced homelessness as a teenager, built his career by buying and renovating rundown properties, revitalizing neighborhoods along Hampton Beach and M Street.

Leavitt and Riccio have a 32-year age difference, with Riccio being 60 years older than her. Their relationship, marked by Leavitt's initial hesitation and her parents' acceptance, has been described by both as deeply supportive. Riccio's financial stability has been crucial in Leavitt's career, enabling her to focus on her political ambitions and supporting her during her congressional campaign.

The couple welcomed their first child, Niko, in July 2024, shortly before a political assassination attempt on Donald Trump, which prompted Leavitt to return to work before completing her maternity leave. Their second child, Viviana, was born in May 2026, and she briefly returned to work after a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, describing the experience as both challenging and blissful.

Despite the pressures of balancing her political role with motherhood, Leavitt has remained committed to her career, becoming one of Trump's top outside advisers and a prominent voice within the Republican Party. President Trump praised Leavitt as one of the best White House Press Secretaries in the history of the office and expressed respect for her decision to step down, citing her as a trusted aide and influential voice within the party.