Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, unveiled her newborn daughter, Viviana—nicknamed "Vivi"—to the world this Thursday. Vivi was born on May 1st.
"On May 1st, Viviana, also known as 'Vivi,' became a part of our family, and our hearts were immediately overflowing with love," Leavitt shared on her social media, posting a photo of herself holding her newborn in a room adorned with pink and white decorations.
At 28, Leavitt is the youngest White House spokesperson in U.S. history and continued working almost up until her delivery.
Her last formal press briefing was on April 27, just four days before she gave birth. She even attended the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where a man attempted to enter the ballroom at the exact moment mentalist Oz Pearlman guessed the name "Vivian" as the baby's name.
President Donald Trump mentioned the incident on CBS News' "60 Minutes": "They asked him the name of Karoline's child, but he didn't know."
In her post, Leavitt described her daughter as "perfect and healthy," noting that her eldest child is joyfully adjusting to the arrival of his baby sister.
"We are cherishing every moment in our blissful newborn bubble," she added.
Viviana is the second child of Leavitt and her husband, Nicholas Riccio. Their first child, Nicholas Robert "Niko," was born in July 2024. Remarkably, Leavitt returned to Trump's campaign just four days after giving birth, coinciding with the Butler, Pennsylvania attack.
During her maternity leave, the White House has implemented a rotating scheme of senior officials taking over the press podium. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was the first to step into this role last Tuesday, with an administration official praising him as a "natural talent."
Rubio seized this opportunity to challenge the Cuban regime's narrative on the embargo, an address that garnered significant media attention.
His performance has led some analysts to see him as a potential successor with increased influence within the administration.
Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and possibly Trump himself are also expected to address the press during Leavitt's absence.
Leavitt concluded her message with a note of faith: "Thank you to everyone who sent prayers during my pregnancy. I truly felt them throughout the entire experience. God is good."
Key Insights on Karoline Leavitt's Life and Career
Who is Karoline Leavitt?
Karoline Leavitt is the current White House Press Secretary, known for being the youngest person to hold this position in U.S. history at the age of 28.
How did the White House manage press briefings during Leavitt's maternity leave?
The White House adopted a rotating schedule of senior officials to handle press briefings, starting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was praised for his natural talent in the role.