Karoline Leavitt, who previously served as White House press secretary, has transitioned from her high-profile role to focus on family and a new home renovation project in Florida. Leavitt, known for being the youngest press secretary in national history, revealed details of the venture over the weekend through social media posts, inviting her audience to follow the progress. The property in Florida is co-owned with her husband, real estate developer Nicholas Riccio.
"It’s bitter because I’m leaving a job that I love so very much, and it’s been the honor and blessing of a lifetime to work for this president, President Trump. There will never be another like him and to serve as his spokesperson behind that podium. It has been the adventure of a lifetime." Karoline Leavitt, Former White House Press Secretary
Leavitt’s departure from the White House at the end of August marked a significant shift in her daily responsibilities. Her decision was largely influenced by the demands of balancing a rigorous political career with the needs of her two young children, Niko, age two, and Viviana, four months old. In public remarks made prior to her exit, Leavitt spoke of the increasing difficulty of juggling her demanding role with raising a young family, describing the experience as bittersweet.
On her social media platforms, Leavitt shared photographs of the Florida property and a poll asking followers if they wished to track the renovation. She also addressed questions regarding a double stroller featured in her posts, clarifying that it was purchased for their Florida home, which they intend to use for a few months out of the year. Leavitt emphasized that the family’s primary residence remains in New Hampshire, dispelling any speculation of a permanent relocation to Florida. "I ordered this on Amazon since we will only be here for a few months of the year, and it’s less expensive,” she wrote, explaining her practical choice for a budget-friendly stroller.
The relationship between Leavitt and Riccio began in 2022 during her congressional campaign in New Hampshire. Riccio, with an established career in real estate and a reported portfolio of properties, aligns with the couple’s undertaking of a home renovation. This project underscores a current focus on domestic life and family for Leavitt, stepping back from the immediate public political spotlight.
Despite her shift in daily activities, Leavitt has not entirely severed her ties with President Donald Trump’s political operation. President Trump confirmed in August that Leavitt would continue to serve as one of his outside advisers following her departure from the administration. This arrangement ensures her ongoing involvement within his close circle. Furthermore, Leavitt has publicly stated her intention to return to MAGA Inc., the Trump-aligned Super PAC where she previously served as a spokeswoman before her tenure in the White House.
Her final interview while still in her White House role highlighted the emotional complexity of her decision. Leavitt expressed deep affection for her position and profound respect for President Trump. “It’s bitter because I’m leaving a job that I love so very much, and it’s been the honor and blessing of a lifetime to work for this president, President Trump. There will never be another like him and to serve as his spokesperson behind that podium. It has been the adventure of a lifetime,” she stated. She further elaborated on her motivation, saying, “They’re just at a critical time in their life when they need their mom home a little bit more.”
For now, Leavitt’s public presence is largely centered on her family and the progress of their Florida home project, with social media posts depicting her children enjoying poolside relaxation. This period signifies a deliberate prioritization of personal and family life, even as her advisory role to President Trump and planned return to MAGA Inc. indicate her continued, albeit less public, engagement in the political sphere. The renovation and family updates offer a glimpse into a household balancing two states and domestic priorities, while maintaining strategic political connections.
