Karoline Leavitt, 29, has detailed her decision to resign from her position as White House press secretary, stating that the arrival of her second daughter prompted a reassessment of her family priorities. Leavitt, who was the youngest press secretary appointed in the Trump administration, served her last day on August 27.
In an interview on News Nation's Morning in America, Leavitt explained that the birth of her daughter, Viviana, in May, along with their two-year-old son Niko, underscored the need for her constant presence at home. "I think the birth of my second daughter, as I said in my statement, really just showed me that two children at home deserve and need their mothers 24/7 constant attention and presence," Leavitt told host Markie Martin. She emphasized that these are formative years for her children and that "we never get these years back with our young kids."
Leavitt described the decision as a difficult one, acknowledging her deep affection for her role. "I love this job so much… And sometimes in life you just can’t have it all at the same time. And I realize I’m at that moment in my life right now," she said.
She also expressed gratitude for her husband, Nicholas Riccio, 60, whom she referred to as an "angel" and a "blessing." Leavitt noted that Riccio had made significant personal sacrifices, including stepping back from his own career and relocating to Washington D.C., a city unfamiliar to him, to support her. "He has just been an angel and a blessing to me and my kids, really has given up a lot to move to DC, a town he's unfamiliar with," she stated. "He took a step back from his own career to be here for me and support me."
Leavitt also conveyed her appreciation for President Donald Trump, calling her time working for him the "honor and blessing of a lifetime" and noting his support for her and her family.
On her final day in the role, Leavitt was accompanied by her husband and two children, posing for a family photograph in front of the White House press podium.
Leavitt and Riccio, who have an age difference of 32 years, have previously characterized their relationship as an "atypical love story." They met through a mutual acquaintance at an event in New Hampshire, where Riccio owned a restaurant. Leavitt acknowledged initial doubts about the age gap but ultimately found Riccio to be her "greatest supporter," "best friend," and "rock."
Regarding her future, Leavitt indicated plans to continue as an advisor to the President. Reports also suggest she may be considering an offer to join the cast of the ABC daytime show The View, an idea that has reportedly received support from President Trump and other White House officials. While official talks have not yet commenced, ABC representatives have expressed interest in having Leavitt as a guest, potentially as a trial run for a permanent role on the panel.