At just 27 years old, Karoline Leavitt made history as the youngest White House Press Secretary after President Donald Trump appointed her following his 2024 election victory. Having previously served as Assistant Press Secretary under Kayleigh McEnany during Trump’s first term, Leavitt’s rise to the top of political communications has been swift and significant.
Beyond her political career, Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, a 59-year-old real estate mogul from New Hampshire. Their 32-year age difference has drawn public attention, but the couple remains focused on their personal and professional lives. They welcomed their first child, Nicholas ‘Niko’ Robert Riccio, in July 2024.
This article explores Leavitt’s political journey, her personal life, and the impressive career of her husband, Nicholas Riccio.
Who Is Karoline Leavitt?
Early Career and Political Rise
Born in 1997, Karoline Leavitt grew up in New Hampshire and was deeply involved in conservative politics from an early age. After graduating from Saint Anselm College, she pursued a career in political communications.
Her major breakthrough came in Trump’s first administration, where she worked as an Assistant Press Secretary under Kayleigh McEnany. She later became the Communications Director for Rep. Elise Stefanik, further establishing her reputation as a prominent conservative voice.
2022 Congressional Run
In 2022, Leavitt made an ambitious attempt to run for Congress in New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District. Despite a strong grassroots campaign, she was defeated in the Republican primary. Her experience on the campaign trail, however, strengthened her ties within Trump’s political circle.
2024 Trump Campaign and White House Appointment
Following her Congressional defeat, Leavitt became one of the top spokespersons for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. Her sharp media presence and loyalty to Trump’s policies made her a standout figure.
After Trump’s victory in November 2024, he appointed Leavitt as White House Press Secretary, making her the youngest person ever to hold the role at just 27.
Karoline Leavitt’s Marriage to Nicholas Riccio
A High-Profile Relationship
Karoline Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, a New Hampshire-based real estate developer who is 32 years older than her.
Their relationship became public during Leavitt’s 2022 Congressional campaign, where Riccio was part of her campaign finance committee. On Christmas Day in 2023, the couple announced their engagement, though the exact date of their wedding remains unclear.
In July 2024, Leavitt and Riccio welcomed their first child, Nicholas ‘Niko’ Robert Riccio.
Who Is Nicholas Riccio?
Nicholas Riccio’s rags-to-riches story is nothing short of inspiring. At 18 years old, he was homeless, but through hard work and determination, he built a real estate empire in New England.
Early Struggles and Real Estate Career
- Riccio attended Plymouth State University, where he worked multiple jobs to support himself.
- In the early 2000s, he started his career in real estate investment, inspired by his observations of declining neighborhoods in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire.
- He began buying and renovating properties, one building at a time.
By 2015, Riccio’s company, Riccio Enterprises LLC, owned 15 properties and 70 apartments in the Hampton Beach area alone.
Expanding His Business Empire
- Riccio expanded his investments across Boston, the White Mountains, and other areas in New England.
- His properties have been used for political and conservative events, including Trump campaign gatherings that Leavitt attended.
Today, Riccio is a multi-millionaire real estate mogul, continuing to expand his business empire while supporting his wife’s political career.
Karoline Leavitt’s Net Worth and Salary
How Much Is Karoline Leavitt Worth?
While exact figures regarding Leavitt’s personal wealth are not publicly available, as White House Press Secretary, her annual salary is estimated at $183,000, per standard government pay scales.
However, her marriage to Riccio, who has a multimillion-dollar real estate empire, significantly elevates her financial standing.
Income Sources
Leavitt’s financial portfolio includes:
- Government Salary ($183,000 per year)
- Speaking Engagements
- Media Contributions
- Book Deals & Future Business Opportunities
With her rising political profile, Leavitt’s net worth is expected to increase in the coming years.
Life as White House Press Secretary
Challenges and Responsibilities
As Press Secretary, Leavitt serves as the top spokesperson for President Donald Trump, handling daily press briefings and media relations.
Her responsibilities include:
- Communicating Trump’s policies to the public.
- Handling media inquiries and press briefings.
- Defending the administration’s decisions against criticism.
Leavitt’s youth and media-savvy approach bring a fresh dynamic to the White House press office.
Public Reaction to Her Appointment
Her historic appointment has sparked both praise and criticism:
- Supporters see her as a rising conservative star with a strong grasp of media strategy.
- Critics argue that her lack of experience compared to past press secretaries could be a challenge.
Despite mixed opinions, Leavitt has proven to be a confident and loyal advocate for the Trump administration.
What’s Next for Karoline Leavitt and Nicholas Riccio?
Leavitt’s Political Future
With her rapid political rise, many speculate that Leavitt could run for office again in the future. Potential opportunities include:
- A future Congressional run in New Hampshire.
- Higher positions in a second Trump administration.
Riccio’s Business Growth
Meanwhile, Nicholas Riccio continues expanding his real estate empire, with:
- New property acquisitions across the East Coast.
- Political fundraisers and involvement in conservative events.
The couple’s political and business ambitions make them a powerful force in both government and real estate.
Final Thoughts
Karoline Leavitt’s journey from a young conservative activist to White House Press Secretary at 27 is a historic milestone in American politics.
Her marriage to real estate mogul Nicholas Riccio, despite their 32-year age gap, has also drawn public curiosity. With a growing political career, increasing financial influence, and a young family, Leavitt is poised to remain a major figure in conservative politics for years to come.
