Early Life and Education
Karoline Claire Leavitt was born on August 24, 1997, in Atkinson, New Hampshire. Raised in a Catholic household, Leavitt’s upbringing included working summers at her family’s local ice cream stand. She attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where she excelled in softball and was recognized as an Eagle-Tribune All-Star in 2014 and 2015.
In 2015, Leavitt enrolled at Saint Anselm College on a softball scholarship, majoring in communications and minoring in political science. During her college years, she interned at Fox News and the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence, where she wrote letters on behalf of the president. She also founded the college’s broadcasting club and contributed to the student newspaper, often expressing conservative viewpoints. Leavitt graduated in 2019, becoming the first in her immediate family to earn a college degree.
Career Trajectory
Assistant Press Secretary (2019–2021)
After graduating, Leavitt joined the White House as a writer in the Office of Presidential Correspondence. By June 2020, she advanced to Associate Director of the office. Later that year, she was appointed Assistant Press Secretary under Kayleigh McEnany, participating in significant events such as the nomination ceremony for Amy Coney Barrett.
Communications Director for Rep. Elise Stefanik (2021)
In January 2021, Leavitt became the Communications Director for Representative Elise Stefanik of New York. Her tenure was marked by active engagement in conservative media and political strategy.
Congressional Campaign (2021–2022)
Leavitt announced her candidacy for New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District in July 2021, positioning herself as a pro-Trump, Generation Z conservative. She won the Republican primary in September 2022 but was defeated by Democratic incumbent Chris Pappas in the general election.
Roles in Trump’s Political Operations (2023–2024)
Following her congressional bid, Leavitt served as a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Donald Trump. In January 2024, she was appointed National Press Secretary for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.
White House Press Secretary (2025–Present)
On November 15, 2024, President-elect Trump announced Leavitt as his choice for White House Press Secretary. She officially assumed the role on January 20, 2025. Her tenure has been characterized by a combative approach to traditional media and efforts to include non-traditional media voices in press briefings.
Political Influence and Positions
Leavitt is known for her staunch conservative views, including support for tax reductions, deregulation to aid small businesses, opposition to critical race theory in schools, and advocacy for stricter voting requirements. She has also expressed support for repealing Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.
Controversies
- Campaign Finance Issues: In 2022, Leavitt’s congressional campaign faced a Federal Election Commission complaint alleging acceptance of donations exceeding legal limits. In January 2025, she amended 17 campaign filings, disclosing $326,370 in previously unreported debts, including approximately $200,000 in illicit contributions.
- Press Briefing Claims: During a January 2025 press briefing, Leavitt falsely claimed that $50 million in taxpayer funds were allocated for condoms in Gaza. This statement was debunked by multiple fact-checking organizations.
Public Perception
Leavitt’s assertive style has garnered both praise and criticism. Supporters commend her for challenging traditional media narratives and promoting conservative values. Critics argue that her approach undermines journalistic integrity and transparency.
Personal Life
Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, a real estate developer 32 years her senior. The couple met during her congressional campaign and married in January 2025. They have one son, born in July 2024. Leavitt is a practicing Roman Catholic and attributes her faith to her upbringing and education.
Future Outlook
As White House Press Secretary, Leavitt continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the administration’s communication strategy. Her trajectory suggests potential for further influence within conservative political circles, possibly extending to future electoral pursuits or senior advisory positions.
Timeline of Key Events
- August 24, 1997: Born in Atkinson, New Hampshire.
- 2015–2019: Attended Saint Anselm College; graduated with a B.A. in communications and political science.
- 2019–2020: Served in the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence.
- June 2020: Appointed Assistant Press Secretary under Kayleigh McEnany.
- January 2021: Became Communications Director for Rep. Elise Stefanik.
- July 2021: Announced candidacy for U.S. House of Representatives.
- September 2022: Won Republican primary for New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District.
- November 2022: Lost general election to Chris Pappas.
- January 2024: Appointed National Press Secretary for Trump’s 2024 campaign.
- November 15, 2024: Named White House Press Secretary by President-elect Trump.
- January 20, 2025: Assumed role as White House Press Secretary.