Karoline Leavitt: The Youngest White House Press Secretary Making History

Washington, D.C. – At just 27 years old, Karoline Leavitt has shattered records by becoming the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history, serving under President Donald Trump in his second term. A native of Atkinson, New Hampshire, Leavitt's swift rise in political communications is marked by her staunch support for Trump and a dynamic presence both online and offline.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 24, 1997, Leavitt was raised in a Roman Catholic family that owned an ice cream shop and a used truck dealership in Plaistow, New Hampshire. She attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, graduating in 2015. She later pursued higher education at Saint Anselm College, earning a bachelor's degree in communications and politics in 2019.

During her college years, Leavitt was an outspoken conservative, penning op-eds in support of Trump's policies while challenging mainstream media narratives. She founded the college’s first broadcasting club and interned at WMUR-TV, a Hearst Television station, gaining early experience in media and journalism.

Political Ascent

Leavitt’s professional career began with an internship at Fox News before securing a position as a writer in the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence during the summer before her senior year. Upon graduation, she returned to the White House as an assistant press secretary under then-Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany.

Following Trump’s first term, Leavitt worked as communications director for Representative Elise Stefanik of New York. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire’s 1st District, winning the Republican nomination but losing in the general election to Democrat Chris Pappas. Undeterred by the loss, she remained engaged in politics, taking on the role of national press secretary for Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, a position that paved her way to the White House podium.

Personal Life and Resilience

Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, a real estate developer 32 years her senior. The couple announced their engagement in December 2023 and welcomed their son, Nicholas, in July 2024. Despite balancing the demands of new motherhood, Leavitt remained dedicated to her role, particularly in the wake of an attempted assassination of President Trump in mid-2024.

She credits her Catholic upbringing for instilling strong pro-life values, discipline, and a commitment to public service—principles that continue to shape her career.

A New Era in Media Relations

Leavitt’s tenure as press secretary has already been marked by her assertive interactions with the media and efforts to expand the reach of White House communications. She has expressed a desire to include independent journalists and social media influencers in press briefings, a move reflecting the shifting media landscape and evolving news consumption habits.

During her inaugural press briefing on January 28, 2025, Leavitt underscored the administration’s dedication to upholding the First Amendment and acknowledged the growing role of digital platforms in shaping public discourse. “As the youngest press secretary in history, thanks to President Trump, I take great pride in opening up this room to new media voices to share the president’s message with as many Americans as possible,” she stated.

The Road Ahead

Leavitt's meteoric rise from a small-town upbringing to the national stage showcases her unwavering commitment to her beliefs and political aspirations. As she continues her tenure as White House press secretary, her influence on media strategy and political messaging will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.