Washington, D.C. – June 04, 2025, 03:09 AM ET – In a heartbreaking announcement, the family of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has shared urgent news with her followers, revealing that her husband, Nicholas Riccio, is currently hospitalized and fighting a serious health challenge. The 27-year-old press secretary, the youngest in U.S. history, has stepped away from her duties as the family rallies around Riccio, leaving a nation of supporters stunned and sending prayers.
The update came late on June 03, 2025, via a statement posted on Leavitt’s official Instagram account by her family, who cited privacy concerns but confirmed Riccio, 59, was admitted to a Washington, D.C. hospital on June 02 after a sudden medical emergency. “Karoline and Nick’s family are by his side, asking for privacy and your thoughts during this difficult time,” the statement read, offering no further details on his condition. The couple, married just days before President Trump’s second inauguration in January 2025, shares a nine-month-old son, Niko, born on July 10, 2024, adding to the emotional weight of the situation.
Leavitt, known for her poised briefings and recent viral moments balancing motherhood with her role, has been a visible figure since joining the Trump administration. Riccio, a real estate developer, has been a supportive presence, seen with Leavitt and Niko at Mar-a-Lago and the White House Easter Egg Roll in April 2025, as reported by Daily Mail. The family’s decision to shield specifics reflects their private nature, though the urgency of the news has fueled concern among fans and colleagues. On X, #PrayForKaroline trends with messages like, “Sending strength to Karoline and her family—hoping for Nick’s recovery,” and “Such a shock—prayers for the Leavitt-Riccio family.”
Fox News colleagues, including Dana Perino, expressed solidarity, with Perino posting, “Karoline’s family is in our hearts—wishing Nick strength.” The White House issued a brief statement: “We support Karoline and her family during this challenging time.” Leavitt’s absence from the June 03 briefing, where Deputy Press Secretary Sean Spicer stepped in, hinted at the crisis, though no official reason was given until the family’s announcement.
The couple’s “atypical love story,” as Leavitt described their 32-year age gap in a February 2025 Megyn Kelly Show interview, has endeared them to many, with Riccio’s support for her career a key theme. As Leavitt navigates this personal trial alongside her public role, America watches with bated breath, hoping for positive news about Riccio’s condition and strength for a family facing an uncertain future.