Introduction
Karoline Leavitt has made headlines as the 36th White House Press Secretary, assuming office on January 20, 2025, under President Donald Trump. At just 27 years old, she is the youngest person to ever hold this position1. But who is Karoline Leavitt, and what has she achieved so far?
Early Life and Education
Karoline Claire Leavitt was born on August 24, 1997, in Atkinson, New Hampshire. Raised in a Catholic family, she attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, before earning Bachelor of Arts degrees in Communications and Political Science from Saint Anselm College1. During her college years, she interned at Fox News and worked at Hearst Television WMUR-TV.
Career Path
Leavitt’s career in politics began with an internship in the White House Office of Presidential Correspondence during her senior year of college. She later joined the White House Press Office as an assistant press secretary under Kayleigh McEnany during Trump’s first administration1. After the administration ended, she worked as the communications director for U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik.
In 2022, Leavitt ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in New Hampshire’s 1st district, winning the Republican nomination but losing in the general election to incumbent Chris Pappas. She then served as the national press secretary for Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign1.
Becoming White House Press Secretary
In November 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced Leavitt as his choice for White House Press Secretary, making her the youngest person to ever hold the position. Her appointment has been both celebrated and scrutinized, given her young age and outspoken support for Trump1.
Challenges and Achievements
As the youngest White House Press Secretary, Leavitt has faced significant challenges, including managing the press corps and navigating the complexities of political communication. Despite these challenges, she has been praised for her dedication and ability to handle high-pressure situations1.
Personal Life
Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, and the couple has one son. Her family background includes owning an ice cream shop and a used truck dealership in Plaistow, New Hampshire1.
