White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt returned to the podium on Thursday, making her first press conference appearance since giving birth to her daughter, Viviana. Leavitt, 28, had been on maternity leave for just over a month, returning to work in late June.
During her remarks, Leavitt shared insights into managing her demanding role as press secretary while caring for her newborn. She stated that balancing work and motherhood requires a collaborative effort, noting, "it really does take a village." She expressed gratitude for her husband, Nicholas Riccio, who was home with their children, including their elder son Niko, who recently turned two.
Leavitt described her position as "more than a job," characterizing it as "public service on behalf of a President." She articulated a strong belief in the Trump administration's agenda, stating, "I firmly believe in everything this administration is doing and [I believe he's] really creating a better country for my children and their future." She added that she feels blessed to be in her current role and to have two children at home, emphasizing that "there is nothing better than being a mother."
Her attire for the press conference, a bright pink suit, was noted as a potential tribute to her daughter. Leavitt had previously discussed postpartum recovery and balancing work on Fox & Friends, humorously attributing her post-pregnancy radiance to the makeup artist and sleep deprivation.
This return follows a pattern of Leavitt returning to work shortly after childbirth. She previously returned to her role as national press secretary for Trump's presidential campaign days after giving birth to her son Niko in July 2024. She was also present at the podium at 39 weeks pregnant in April, during what was intended to be the start of her maternity leave, in the aftermath of the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting.