Karoline Leavitt is celebrating a major milestone after welcoming her second child with husband Nicholas Riccio. The 28-year-old White House press secretary recently announced the birth of her daughter, Viviana, affectionately called “Vivi,” sharing emotional family photos and heartfelt messages online.
Leavitt revealed that her daughter was born on May 1 and described the experience as a moment of overwhelming happiness for the entire family. She wrote that their hearts “instantly exploded with love” after Vivi’s arrival and said both mother and baby are healthy and doing well. The couple’s young son, Niko, is also reportedly adjusting happily to becoming a big brother.
A Historic Moment in the White House
Leavitt has already made history during her time in politics. She became the youngest White House press secretary in American history after taking the role in 2025. She is also believed to be the first sitting press secretary to go through pregnancy and childbirth while serving in the position. Her rapid rise in politics has attracted significant public attention. Before joining the White House, she worked on Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and previously served in communications roles for several Republican figures. Despite her demanding career, Leavitt has frequently spoken about the importance of balancing family life with public service. The announcement of her daughter’s birth quickly gained attention across social media, where supporters congratulated her and praised the family photos she posted online.
Iran’s Message Sparks Online Debate
However, the happy occasion unexpectedly became tied to international controversy after a message from Iranian officials circulated online. Following Leavitt’s announcement, an account linked to the Iranian Embassy in Armenia publicly congratulated her while also criticizing the United States over a deadly school strike in Minab earlier this year. The message referenced children reportedly killed during the attack and urged Leavitt to think about grieving mothers while celebrating her own child’s birth. The statement quickly spread online and triggered heated reactions from both critics and supporters. The controversy stems from accusations surrounding a strike that reportedly killed more than 150 people, including many children, during escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States earlier this year. According to reports, investigations suggested the strike may have resulted from a targeting error involving a US missile. Leavitt had previously defended the United States government against accusations of intentionally targeting civilians, stating that the US does not deliberately attack innocent people.
Balancing Politics and Motherhood
Despite the political backlash and intense media attention, Leavitt appears focused on spending time with her growing family. Reports indicate she plans to take maternity leave after previously returning to work almost immediately following the birth of her first child in 2024. Her supporters have praised her ability to manage both motherhood and one of the most high-pressure communication jobs in Washington. Critics, meanwhile, continue to scrutinize her political role and public statements. For now, Leavitt seems determined to enjoy what she described as a “blissful newborn bubble” with her husband, son, and newborn daughter while temporarily stepping away from the White House spotlight.
