White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared heartwarming news on Instagram late Friday, revealing that she is pregnant with her second child and describing it as 'the greatest Christmas gift we could have ever wished for'.
At only 28, the youngest press secretary in US history, and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, 60, are expecting a baby girl due in May 2026.
Motherhood's Her True Calling
In the emotional caption, Leavitt opened up about motherhood, describing it as 'the closest thing to Heaven on Earth'.
She said she and Riccio are thrilled to grow their family and could not wait to watch their son, Nicholas 'Niko' Robert Riccio, become a big brother. The couple's son was born in July 2024, at the height of the presidential campaign.
'My heart is overflowing with gratitude to God for the blessing of motherhood,' she wrote.
The post was quickly flooded with congratulatory messages from friends, supporters and political figures that reached close to half a million in less than 10 hours. Many praised her candour about balancing family life with one of the most demanding roles in Washington.
Leavitt also offered public thanks to Donald Trump and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, crediting them for fostering what she described as a 'pro-family' environment.
'2026 is going to be a great year and I am so excited to welcome a daughter,' she added.
Back to Work, Bump and All
The pregnancy marks another milestone in a whirlwind few years. Leavitt and Riccio became engaged over Christmas in 2023 and welcomed their son less than a year later.
She has previously spoken about returning to political work shortly after giving birth, choosing not to take extended maternity leave during the turbulent 2024 presidential campaign.
Recalling that moment, she said she turned to her husband and told him, 'Looks like I'm going back to work,' a decision she has described as rooted in a deep sense of responsibility.
Leavitt is expected to remain at the White House throughout her pregnancy. If so, she would become the first visibly pregnant press secretary in US history.
Family Drama Lurking
The joyful announcement comes amid lingering personal tensions.
Last month, Bruna Caroline Ferreira, the mother of Leavitt's nephew, was detained by US immigration authorities while collecting her child from school in Massachusetts. She was later released by court order and publicly criticised Leavitt, accusing her of hypocrisy over immigration policy.
Leavitt has not commented publicly on the situation, and those close to the family say the rift dates back many years.
Eyes on 2026
Despite the backdrop of controversy, Leavitt's post struck a hopeful and faith-filled tone, centred on family and gratitude.
For the trailblazing press secretary, 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year, marked by history in the briefing room and a new baby girl at home.
She signed off her post simply and optimistically: 'Let's see what 2026 holds.'
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