K
aroline Leavitt, 28, became the youngest White House press secretary when she was appointed in 2024. In January 2025 she married real‑estate investor Nicholas Riccio, 60, a 32‑year age gap that has drawn media attention. Leavitt first spoke about the union on the New York Post’s “Pod Force One” podcast, where host Miranda Devine asked her about the unusual difference. Leavitt laughed, admitting that finding a mature partner her own age was difficult, and described how the relationship began during her congressional campaign in New Hampshire’s 1st District. A mutual friend introduced Riccio to her at a restaurant event, and what started as friendship quickly turned into romance.
When Leavitt revealed her engagement to her parents, Bob and Erin, she recalled the conversation as “challenging.” The couple eventually warmed to Riccio after seeing his character and devotion to their son, Niko, born July 2024. Leavitt praised Riccio as “incredibly hands‑on” and “amazing,” noting that his real‑estate empire—estimated at $6 million—has allowed him to support her career and provide a stable home for their child.
Riccio’s background is a story of resilience. Raised in New Hampshire by parents Anthony and Marilyn, he experienced homelessness in his late teens, sleeping in cars and working grocery shelves to pay for college. He earned a degree from Plymouth State University and discovered a passion for real‑estate in 1990. He began buying neglected properties in Hampton Beach, starting with a single building on M Street and eventually expanding to a portfolio of ten homes across New Hampshire and West Virginia. His company, Nautical Beach Properties, focuses on revitalizing abandoned homes and offering guests a beachside experience.
Leavitt has faced scrutiny over the age gap, but she has defended the marriage in interviews, including a March conversation with former Fox News host Megyn Kelly. She emphasized that Riccio is her “greatest supporter,” “best friend,” and “rock,” and that their relationship is “atypical” but works because of mutual respect and shared goals.
The couple’s public life has intersected with the presidency. Leavitt’s son Niko has met President Donald Trump on several occasions, and Leavitt has praised Trump’s kindness toward children. She also highlighted how Riccio’s low‑profile nature keeps him out of the spotlight, allowing him to focus on family while she balances her demanding role in Washington.
In 2023, Leavitt and Riccio announced their engagement on Instagram, with a photo of the proposal and a caption expressing gratitude. Their wedding in January 2025 followed a brief period of public scrutiny, but the couple has since presented a united front, celebrating their son’s birth and their shared life.
Despite the challenges of blending careers, family, and a significant age difference, Leavitt and Riccio continue to support each other. Leavitt’s role as press secretary and Riccio’s real‑estate ventures illustrate a partnership that defies conventional expectations while maintaining a strong foundation of love, respect, and shared ambition.
