CNN panelist Sophia Nelson has sharply criticized former White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt following Leavitt's announcement that she is stepping down from her role to focus on her family. Nelson, 59, took to social media platform X to describe Leavitt, 28, as a "hot mess" and also commented on Leavitt's age-gap relationship with her husband.
Leavitt announced her departure on Wednesday, citing the challenges of balancing a demanding White House role with raising two young children, including a newborn daughter born in May. "The truth is since returning to the White House after the birth of my daughter, I have felt in my heart that I cannot be the best mom my two young children deserve while devoting the constant time, energy, and attention required of the White House Press Secretary," Leavitt wrote on X.
Nelson's critique included remarks about Leavitt's marriage to real estate developer Nicholas Riccio, 60. Nelson referred to Leavitt's husband as an "old man in his 60's" and described Leavitt herself as "incompetent" with "no professional background." Nelson also made controversial characterizations, stating, "Blonde. Cute. Bimbo. Snarky. With a big cross around her neck. That's so Trump-Mar-A-Lago-Epstein vibes."
Leavitt returned to the White House on July 16 after maternity leave. She gave birth to her second child, Vivi, in May. Her first child, Niko, is two years old. Leavitt married Riccio in January 2025.
President Trump responded to Leavitt's decision on TruthSocial, expressing understanding and respect for her choice. He called Leavitt "one of the best White House press secretaries in the history of the office" and stated she would remain a "top outside adviser" and "influential voice."
Leavitt joined the Trump administration in 2018, initially serving as a presidential writer before becoming an assistant White House press secretary. From 2021 to 2022, she was the communications director for Representative Elise Stefanik. She then served as a national press secretary for Trump's re-election campaign in 2024 before being appointed White House Press Secretary upon his return to office.
During her tenure, Leavitt was known for her assertive style in the briefing room, often mirroring Trump's approach in challenging journalists and defending the administration. She was also noted for her unusual access, attending classified briefings and advising on significant issues, including the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.
Leavitt's resignation follows that of one of her top deputies, Abigail Jackson, who left the White House for the private sector two weeks prior. The White House has not yet named a replacement for Leavitt, and no official stand-in was appointed during her maternity leave. It remains uncertain whether Leavitt will pursue another role or join a private company while continuing to advise Trump from outside the White House.