Karoline Leavitt, 28, discusses her 32-year age difference with husband Nicholas Riccio, sharing insights into family dynamics and parenting.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has addressed the unconventional nature of her marriage to Nicholas Riccio, acknowledging the 32-year age gap between them. Leavitt, 28, married the 60-year-old real estate developer in January 2025, just days before President Donald Trump’s second inauguration. The couple shares a son, Niko, born in July 2024.
In a recent appearance on the Pod Force One with Miranda Devine podcast, Leavitt described the age difference as “very unusual.” When asked whether she could not find partners closer to her own age, Leavitt laughed, responding, “Honestly, no, if you want to know the truth.”
The pair first met in 2022 through a mutual friend while Leavitt was campaigning for a Congressional seat in New Hampshire. She ultimately lost to Democrat Chris Pappas. Despite the unconventional start, Leavitt and Riccio became engaged in 2023 before marrying early this year.
Leavitt acknowledged that her parents initially found the relationship challenging, in part because her mother is younger than Riccio. “But then, once they got to know him and saw his character and how much he adores me, I think it became quite easy for them,” she said. Leavitt added that the family now enjoys a strong, friendly bond. “My husband has such respect for my parents…we all have a lot of fun together when they visit.”
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Personality differences between the couple also stand out. Leavitt describes Riccio as introverted and private, contrasting with her public-facing role at the White House. “He stays behind the scenes. He’s not on social media,” she said. Despite his reserved nature, Leavitt emphasized Riccio’s active involvement as a father, calling him “an incredibly hands-on dad” and “the best of friends” to their son.
Leavitt also highlighted Riccio’s professional achievements, noting that he is a self-made businessman who owns over a dozen rental properties in New Hampshire. She praised his support for her career, saying, “He’s built his career, so he’s in a place where he can support me in mine.”
Though Leavitt rarely posts about her husband publicly, she recently shared family photos from Halloween, showing the couple and their son trick-or-treating alongside President Trump.
For Leavitt, the marriage appears to be a partnership of mutual respect and shared values. She described Riccio as her “number one fan,” noting he watches her every press briefing and interview. The couple’s story offers a glimpse into how personal and professional life intersect for one of Washington’s youngest and most visible figures.