White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is facing backlash online after social media users accused her of editing her husband’s face in a Halloween post on Instagram.
Leavitt, who serves as a close aide to President Donald Trump, shared photos of herself with her husband, Nicholas Riccio, and their young son outside the White House decorated with pumpkins.
Another image showed the family at Vice President JD Vance’s residence in Washington, D.C. Soon after the post went live, many followers claimed that Riccio’s face appeared heavily airbrushed to make him look younger, sparking widespread discussion online.
Who is Karoline Leavitt’s husband?
Leavitt’s husband is Nicholas Riccio, who is 32 years older to her. She met Riccio in 2022 during her campaign for Congress in New Hampshire.
He grew up in Hudson, New Hampshire, as one of four siblings. After completing his education at Plymouth State University, he began a career in real estate.
Over the years, Riccio built a successful business empire under Riccio Enterprises, owning more than 15 properties in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, which he rents out to families.
Having established financial independence early, Riccio now focuses on supporting Leavitt’s demanding political career while spending time with their young son.
The two were introduced by a mutual friend at an event during her run for office. Although Leavitt won the Republican nomination, she lost the general election to Democrat Chris Pappas.
Their friendship eventually turned into a relationship, and the couple became engaged in December 2023.
They welcomed their first child, Nicholas Robert “Niko” Riccio in July 2024. The couple married six months later in January 2025, just days before President Trump’s second inauguration.
Leavitt and Riccio’s relationship has often drawn public curiosity because of their age difference, but the couple has appeared comfortable addressing the attention that comes with their positions.
In a March interview on The Megyn Kelly Show, Leavitt commented on her “atypical” relationship. “He is my greatest supporter, he’s my best friend and he’s my rock,” she praised Riccio (per People). “He’s built a very successful business himself so now he’s fully supportive of me building my success in my career.”