In the world of politics, some figures rise quickly to prominence, and Karoline Leavitt is one of them. At just 27 years old, she has made history as the youngest-ever White House press secretary, appointed by President Donald Trump in November 2024. While much of the spotlight is on her career and her role in shaping public discourse, many are curious about the people who shaped her life—her parents, Bob and Erin Leavitt.
So, who are the parents of this rising political star, and how did their influence contribute to her journey? Let’s take a closer look at the family that helped mold Karoline Leavitt into the woman she is today.
Karoline Leavitt’s Roots: A Small-Town Beginning
Karoline Leavitt hails from Atkinson, New Hampshire, a small town in Rockingham County known for its close-knit community and New England charm. She was born in 1997 to Bob and Erin Leavitt, a hardworking couple who ran their own businesses while raising their family.
Growing up in Atkinson, Leavitt enjoyed a traditional American childhood, shaped by faith, family values, and entrepreneurship. Her parents owned an ice cream shop and a used car dealership, instilling in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for small business owners—the backbone of America’s economy.
A Family of Faith and Strong Values
Bob and Erin Leavitt raised Karoline and her two brothers, Joe and Mike, in a devout Catholic household. Faith played a central role in their upbringing, and Karoline has continued to embrace her beliefs throughout her life.
She has frequently expressed her faith on social media, even curating an Instagram highlight titled “Faith” to share her beliefs with followers. This foundation has undoubtedly played a significant role in her personal and professional life, guiding her values and decisions.
Karoline’s Education and Early Political Passion
Karoline attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where she excelled academically and developed a passion for politics and communications. She then pursued higher education at Saint Anselm College, a private Catholic liberal arts college in Manchester, New Hampshire.
In 2019, she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Political Science—a combination that would later serve her well in her role as a political spokesperson. During her college years, she was an outspoken supporter of Donald Trump, an interest that led her to internships at Fox News and the White House’s Presidential Correspondence Office.
From Intern to White House Press Secretary
Karoline Leavitt’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. After her White House internship, she landed a full-time role in the Trump administration in 2020 as an assistant press secretary, working under Kayleigh McEnany. However, after Trump’s first term ended in January 2021, she pivoted to new political challenges.
In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire’s 1st district, winning the Republican nomination but ultimately losing to Democrat Chris Pappas in the general election. Following that defeat, she joined Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign as the national press secretary, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the campaign’s media strategy.
After Trump’s victory in November 2024, he named Leavitt his White House press secretary, and she officially took office on January 20, 2025.
Karoline Leavitt’s Family Life and Net Worth
Despite her demanding career, Karoline has managed to balance family life with her professional responsibilities. She is married to Nicholas “Nick” Riccio, an entrepreneur who owns Riccio Enterprises LLC. The couple, who had been together for years, welcomed their first child, Nicholas Robert, in 2024.
As of 2025, Karoline Leavitt’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million, a combination of her government salary, media appearances, and potential future opportunities in politics and conservative media.
How Her Parents Influenced Her Political Views
Bob and Erin Leavitt’s entrepreneurial spirit and conservative values had a significant impact on their daughter’s worldview. Growing up in a business-owning family, Karoline witnessed firsthand the struggles and triumphs of small businesses. This background helped shape her pro-business, low-regulation, and America-first policies that she strongly advocates today.
Her parents also instilled in her the importance of hard work, perseverance, and self-reliance—qualities that have been evident in her meteoric rise in politics.
Conclusion: A Strong Foundation for a Rising Star
Karoline Leavitt’s story is one of ambition, faith, and strong family values. From her small-town roots in New Hampshire to becoming the face of the White House press office, her journey has been shaped by the support and guidance of her parents, Bob and Erin Leavitt.
As she continues her career in Washington, her family’s influence remains a guiding force, ensuring that she stays true to the values that have brought her this far. Whether she remains in the political sphere long-term or eventually transitions into conservative media, one thing is certain—Karoline Leavitt is a name we’ll be hearing for years to come.