White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has openly discussed her marriage to Nicolas Riccio, a real estate developer who is 32 years her senior.
The couple married in January 2025, just prior to President Donald Trump’s second inauguration. Leavitt, 27, shared wedding photographs on Instagram on March 12, describing their wedding day as one of the most joyful experiences of her life.
A Unique Love Story Rooted in Politics
Leavitt recently appeared on The Megyn Kelly Show, where she shared insights about her relationship, characterizing it as “unconventional yet immensely supportive.”
She reminisced about their first encounter in 2022 at a restaurant event in New Hampshire while she was campaigning for Congress. Although she won the Republican nomination, she ultimately lost to Democrat Chris Pappas. Nevertheless, that political endeavor brought her personal happiness by introducing her to Riccio.
“A mutual friend of ours organized an event at a restaurant he owns in New Hampshire and invited my husband. I was the speaker,” Leavitt recounted. “We met and became friends, and then we fell in love.”
Despite initial worries regarding their age gap, Leavitt noted that it soon became irrelevant. She highlighted the importance of Riccio’s support, referring to him as her “greatest supporter, best friend, and rock.” “He has built a very successful business himself, so he is now fully supportive of my career aspirations,” she stated.
Marriage, Motherhood, and Professional Life
The couple became engaged on Christmas 2023, and just a few months later, they welcomed their son, Nicholas Robert Riccio, on July 10, 2024.
After the birth, Leavitt expressed her joy about motherhood on Instagram, stating:
“It’s true what they say: there’s nothing like the love you feel for your child. My heart has expanded beyond what I ever thought possible. Babies are the ultimate blessing, and I am filled with gratitude for our beautiful, happy, healthy boy.”
During her interview, she also reflected on howHe is the father of my child and the most wonderful dad I could ever wish for. His support has been invaluable, particularly during this tumultuous phase of our lives. I often joke, ‘I entered your life, and it has been a circus ever since,’ but I am truly grateful for his commitment and involvement.
A Private Partner in a Public Life
While Leavitt is a well-known public figure, Riccio chooses to maintain a low profile. She recognized this contrast in a social media update, describing him as an introvert and her complete opposite.
“I honor his desire for privacy on this platform, but he is my biggest supporter, the finest father, and simply the best man I have ever known.”
Even though he prefers to stay out of the limelight, she highlighted that he is her strongest advocate, motivating her political aspirations while remaining in the background. As she navigates her responsibilities as a mother, wife, and political leader, Leavitt is thankful for the steadfast support of her husband and their expanding family.
