Karoline Leavitt has stepped away from the intense spotlight of serving as President Donald Trump’s White House press secretary to focus on what matters most — time with her family.

After months of high-pressure briefings and navigating the media storm surrounding the administration, Leavitt is now embracing a slower pace. Sources close to her say she’s enjoying the chance to reconnect with loved ones, recharge, and reflect on her time in the public eye.

Though she’s kept a relatively low profile since stepping back, her recent appearances suggest she’s prioritising personal well-being and family life before making any next moves.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt holding a news conference in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in January(Image: Getty Images)
When Karoline Leavitt isn’t fending off journalists’ and their pesky questions about how President Donald Trump is running the country, she’s a doting mom to baby boy Niko.

The 27-year-old, known for her sharp responses to criticism, took to Instagram to document her family’s visit to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute near Front Royal, Virginia.

In one of the photos, Karoline is seen cuddling little Niko in front of an enclosure, both sporting big smiles. For the outing, she chose a casual outfit of a black tank top and white flowy pants, accessorized with black sunglasses and her blonde hair pulled back in a loose braid.

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info

Niko was dressed appropriately for the zoo visit, wearing a brown button-up shirt and matching shorts adorned with animal prints like zebras and giraffes. His safari-themed look was completed with a khaki bucket hat and adorable white buckled shoes.

Karoline posing for an adorable selfie with her son Niko at the zoo

Karoline shared a candid snap of her husband Nicholas holding up their son to look at the animals
Also present for the fun day out was Karoline’s husband, Nicholas Riccio, who is 32 years her senior. He made a brief appearance on her Instagram Story, holding baby Niko up on a pillar as they admired the animals.

Karoline captioned the sweet moment: “Dada always has our backs,” followed by a white heart emoji.

Karoline’s social media was abuzz with praise from her followers, who were quick to shower the press secretary with adoration. @teresachristianpatriot wrote: “Doing an amazing job! Very proud of you representing our country!”.

Article continues below

Another supporter, @redwhiteandvibrant, demanded: “BOSS LADY NEEDS A DAY OFF. WELL DESERVED,” while @rofiquehussain added: “You’re absolutely nailing it as press secretary! And Happy Easter.”

@moniediaz also joined in, commenting: “You are so beautiful and smart! I love how strong you are! You are truly an inspiration!”.

In a lighter moment, fans couldn’t resist cooing over Niko’s charming ensemble. @juniethrodman gushed: “His outfit is adorable!! Perfect for the occasion!!”

And @miataz200 agreed, saying: “Very cute outfit for Niko,” accompanied by a red heart emoji.

This family moment occurred shortly after Karoline had to abruptly stop a White House press conference.

During a recent press briefing where President Trump appointed TV personality Dr. Mehmet Oz as the new CMS administrator, the event took an unexpected turn.

As reported by FOX News, the conference was suddenly halted, and the screen went black as Karoline swiftly escorted one of Dr Oz’s children out of the room.

Panicked whispers swept through the press as Karoline abruptly commanded everyone to “out.”

Moments later, the room watched as Trump made a swift exit from his podium, seeming eager to grasp the situation at hand. Amidst the chaos, Dr. Oz’s wife Lisa clutched her chest, visibly distressed.

At the same time, Dr. Oz himself was seen springing into action to help.

Additional clips revealed members of the media aiding someone off the floor; nevertheless, the identity of this individual remained a mystery.