Lara Trump weighs in on whether Karoline Leavitt will take maternity leave

Karoline Leavitt’s pregnancy news has fueled widespread talks about her future as White House press secretary. Rumors over maternity leave and possible replacements rapidly surfaced online. However, President Donald Trump’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, Appearing on Fox & Friends Weekend publicly dismissed those speculations, making it clear that Leavitt is not moving away from her position.

Pregnancy Announcement Sparks Role Speculation

Leavitt, 28, disclosed that just after Christmas that she and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, 60, are anticipating their second child, a baby girl due in May 2026. The news quickly prompted online discussions about who might take over her responsibilities while she is away.


Those questions initiated Lara Trump, 43, to react publicly, addressing the rumors head-on in her Fox News appearance with host Lisa Boothe.

“I’ve seen some stories out there…people saying ‘whose next in line,’” Lara Trump stated.

‘She’s Going Nowhere,’ Says Lara Trump

Lara Trump highlighted that no transition is intended and admired Leavitt’s work ethic and capability.

“Karoline Leavitt is a machine. She's incredible. And she's going nowhere. I have seen stories of people saying who's next in line. Nobody is next in line. It's Karoline. She can do everything,” she cited.

She further mentioned Leavitt's performance during the Trump campaign to reinforce her statement.

“She did this, by the way, during the Trump campaign. She was pregnant and delivered her son Niko, and was back to work within a couple of days, on television fighting to ensure that President Trump got elected,” Lara cited.

White House Culture Supports Working Parents

Lara Trump further stated that the White House fosters a family-friendly environment, crediting both President Trump and senior staff.

She described that White House chief of staff Susie Wiles has earlier stated meetings are scheduled so parents can drop their children off at school, bringing a supportive workplace culture.

Lara also humorously stated that viewers should anticipate to see Leavitt continuing to challenge the media in later stages of pregnancy.

Leavitt Responds With Gratitude

Leavitt responded positively to Lara Trump’s remarks, sharing a video of the interview on X and citing, “Thank you Lara! ��”

Supporters immediately echoed their admiration online, with one user stating, “Karoline, you’re a real-life Wonder Woman! ❤️” while another mentioned, “You are a joy to watch! Congratulations on baby girl! May you be blessed!”

Leavitt’s Pregnancy Announcement

In her original Instagram post, Leavitt uploaded images of her baby bump in front of a Christmas tree and cited:

“My husband and I are thrilled to grow our family and can’t wait to watch our son become a big brother.”

“My heart is overflowing with gratitude to God for the blessing of motherhood, which I truly believe is the closest thing to Heaven on Earth.”

FAQs:

Q1. Why did speculation start about Karoline Leavitt’s role?
It started after she revealed her pregnancy. Several wondered who would cover her responsibilities during maternity leave.

Q2. What did Lara Trump say about Leavitt’s position?
She mentioned clearly that no one is replacing Leavitt. Lara highlighted that Leavitt is staying in her role.