Karoline Leavitt Returns to Political Commentary with Fox News Role After White House Stint

Karoline Leavitt, who previously served as the youngest White House Press Secretary under President Donald Trump, is set to re-enter the public political arena as an on-air contributor for Fox News. Her new role is scheduled to commence on November 1. This appointment marks a significant return to political commentary for Leavitt, just months after her departure from the Trump administration in August 2024. At the time of her resignation, Leavitt, aged 29, stated her intention to focus on her family and spend more time with her two young children. President Donald Trump himself announced her departure on his social media platform, Truth Social, confirming Leavitt's personal decision to prioritize her family life. Leavitt is married to Nicholas Riccio, 61, and they are parents to a son named Niko, who is 2 years old, and a daughter, Viviana, born in May. Suzanne Scott, the CEO of Fox News Media, welcomed Leavitt to the network, highlighting her "firsthand experience in the White House and on the presidential campaign trail" as a key asset. Scott emphasized that this experience provides Leavitt with a "distinct understanding of today’s political landscape" and expressed anticipation for her "authentic and sharp insight across all Fox News Media platforms." Leavitt herself conveyed her gratitude for the opportunity to officially join the Fox News Media team. She stated her eagerness to "bring my unique perspective from my experience as White House Press Secretary, along with the same energy and candor that defined my tenure, to Fox’s millions of viewers across their many platforms." Leavitt officially concluded her duties as White House Press Secretary on August 28, 2024. Prior to her departure, she had discussed her decision with hosts of the Fox News program "Fox & Friends," including Ainsley Earhardt, Brian Kilmeade, and Lawrence Jones. During that interview, Leavitt articulated that her children were at a "critical age" where they required more of her presence and attention. Leavitt's marriage to Nicholas Riccio took place in January 2025, two days before President Trump's inauguration, indicating a period of significant personal and professional transitions. Her return to a prominent media role signifies a strategic shift from her previous focus on family, as she re-engages with public discourse and offers her insights on political matters to a wide audience.