The 7 Most Shocking Facts About Karoline Leavitt's Husband, Nicholas Riccio: Age Gap, Fortune, And Political Power

The political spotlight on the White House Press Secretary is intense, but the scrutiny of her personal life is often just as compelling. As of late 2025, the focus has shifted dramatically to the private life of the 36th White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, and her husband, the multi-millionaire real estate investor Nicholas Riccio. Their relationship, marked by a significant age difference and a whirlwind political ascent, has captured global attention. This deep dive into the life of the White House Press Secretary's husband, Nicholas Riccio, reveals a fascinating rags-to-riches story that is as unique as his wife's rapid rise to power. The couple's journey, culminating in a wedding just days before the presidential inauguration, is one of the most talked-about stories in Washington and beyond, providing a fresh and current perspective on the intersection of business, media, and the highest levels of American politics.

Karoline Leavitt: A Biographical Profile of the Youngest Press Secretary

Before exploring the life of her husband, it is essential to understand the groundbreaking career of Karoline Leavitt herself. Her appointment as the White House Press Secretary in the new administration made her the youngest person in U.S. history to hold the prestigious communications role.

• Full Name: Karoline Claire Leavitt
• Date of Birth: August 24, 1997 (Some sources cite 1998)
• Place of Birth: Plaistow, New Hampshire, U.S.
• Education: Graduated from Saint Anselm College in 2019 with a degree in Communications and Political Science.
• Political Affiliation: Republican
• Key Career Milestones:
  • White House intern under the Trump administration.
  • Assistant Press Secretary for President Donald Trump.
  • Communications Director for Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.
  • National Press Secretary for the Trump 2024 Presidential Campaign (appointed January 2024).
  • 36th White House Press Secretary (appointed January 20, 2025).
• Spouse: Nicholas Riccio (Married January 2025)
• Notable Distinction: Youngest White House Press Secretary in U.S. history.

The 7 Compelling Facts About Nicholas Riccio: The Real Estate Mogul

Nicholas Riccio, often referred to as Nick Riccio, is far more than just "the husband" of a prominent political figure. He is a self-made entrepreneur whose personal history and business success stand in stark contrast to the typical Washington power broker. His life story, which includes overcoming adversity to build a multi-million dollar real estate empire, is a testament to the American dream.

1. The 32-Year Age Gap That Shocked Washington

The most widely discussed aspect of their union is the significant age difference. Karoline Leavitt, born in 1997, is 27 years old, while Nicholas Riccio, born in 1965, is 60 years old. This 32-year age gap has been a major talking point in media coverage, with Leavitt herself publicly addressing the "unusual" nature of their relationship.

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The couple first met in 2022 and quickly bonded despite the generational divide. Their relationship has been described as challenging by Leavitt, who has defended their connection against public commentary, emphasizing that their shared values and mutual support are the foundation of their marriage.

2. Riccio's Rags-to-Riches Story Included Homelessness

Unlike many figures in the political elite, Nicholas Riccio’s background is rooted in hardship. He was born on February 23, 1965, and experienced a difficult childhood that included periods of homelessness. This challenging start provided the grit and determination that would fuel his future success.

His journey from living on the street to becoming a multimillionaire is a remarkable story of perseverance. This unique perspective on poverty and wealth gives him a distinct life experience compared to many of his peers in the political sphere.

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3. He is a Self-Made Real Estate Mogul

Nicholas Riccio built his fortune as a successful entrepreneur and real estate investor. After taking a real estate course, he entered the property sector and eventually founded his own company, Riccio Enterprises. His wealth is primarily derived from strategic real estate investments, property renovations, and vacation property management.

His business acumen is highly regarded, with his portfolio including a diverse range of properties. This financial independence and success outside of politics provide a robust base for the couple as they navigate the demanding landscape of the White House.

4. The Whirlwind Engagement and Inauguration Wedding

The timeline of their relationship is remarkably fast-paced, mirroring Leavitt's own political trajectory. Riccio proposed to Leavitt on Christmas Day, December 25, 2023, in New Hampshire.

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Their wedding took place in January 2025, just days before President Donald Trump's second inauguration, a pivotal moment that coincided with Leavitt officially assuming her role as the 36th White House Press Secretary. This timing perfectly encapsulates the fast and furious nature of their life together at the center of American power.

5. He is a Collector with a Private 'Sports Museum'

Beyond his business ventures, Nicholas Riccio has a passion for collecting. He is known to have a significant collection of sports memorabilia, which he proudly displays in a dedicated "sports museum" within his Hampton Beach home.

This hobby provides a glimpse into his personal interests outside of the high-stakes world of real estate and political marriages. It highlights his success in being able to afford such a luxurious and personal collection.

6. Riccio Enterprises is Based in New Hampshire

While the couple's life is now centered in Washington, D.C., Nicholas Riccio’s business roots remain firmly planted in New Hampshire. Riccio Enterprises operates primarily in the New England area, where he has made a name for himself in the property development sector.

This geographic connection is also significant because New Hampshire is Karoline Leavitt's home state, where she was born and where she ran for a congressional seat as a "Generation Z conservative."

7. He is a Private Figure Supporting a Public Role

Despite his wife's extremely public role as the White House Press Secretary, Nicholas Riccio maintains a relatively private profile. While he has appeared with Leavitt at various political events and is mentioned frequently in articles about their age-gap marriage, he is not a political figure himself.

His primary focus remains on his real estate investments and entrepreneurial work, providing a crucial element of stability and support for Leavitt as she navigates the relentless demands of being the chief spokesperson for the President of the United States.

The Intersection of Business, Politics, and Personal Life

The marriage of Karoline Leavitt and Nicholas Riccio is a vivid example of how personal relationships at the highest levels of government inevitably become matters of public interest. The age-gap marriage of the youngest-ever White House Press Secretary to a self-made real estate mogul is a story that defies traditional Washington norms.

As the 36th White House Press Secretary, Leavitt is tasked with managing the administration's message, while Riccio continues to manage his significant real estate portfolio. The couple's ability to balance the intense scrutiny of the White House, the demands of a high-profile political career, and a marriage with a 32-year age difference will undoubtedly keep them in the public eye for years to come.

The contrast between Leavitt's Gen Z political ambition and Riccio's old-school entrepreneurial success makes their partnership one of the most compelling narratives in modern American politics. Their story underscores the fact that in Washington, the personal lives of public figures are just as scrutinized as their professional decisions.