‘Nobody’s Next in Line’: Karoline Leavitt Is ‘Going Nowhere’ Amid Growing Replacement Fears
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s announcement of her second pregnancy—a baby girl due in May 2026 has been quickly overshadowed by intense online speculation about her possible replacement in the high-stakes role, with social media users debating maternity leave duration and floating potential successors.
The 28-year-old Leavitt shared the news on December 26 with with ultrasound images and family photos, but the post rapidly devolved into gossip, jokes, and political commentary, illustrating the relentless scrutiny faced by one of the administration’s most visible and polarizing figures.
Leavitt posted a carousel of images showing her baby bump beside a Christmas tree, an ultrasound, a “Baby sis” shirt for her toddler son Niko, and husband Nicholas Riccio holding their child. “The greatest Christmas gift we could ever ask for – baby girl coming in May 2026,” she wrote. “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.”
She expressed excitement about expanding her family and thanked President Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles for a “pro-family environment” at the White House, declaring 2026 “is going to be a great year and I am so excited to be a girl mom!”
The announcement drew a mix of congratulations from supporters and immediate speculation from critics. A TikTok video joking about the pregnancy was reposted to X with the caption: “I wonder who will be her replacement after giving birth?” The post amassed thousands of views, sparking debates on whether Leavitt would take extended leave or return quickly, as she did after her first child’s birth.
Names floated as potential replacements included Abigail Jackson, Katie Miller, and Laura Loomer. Comments ranged from logistical questions about briefing room coverage to paternity jokes and recurring mockery of Leavitt’s 32-year age gap with Riccio, 60.
Quick Return After First Child Highlights Work Demands
Leavitt gave birth to Niko in July 2024 during Trump’s campaign, planning an eight-week maternity leave but returning after just four days following the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.
“I had a feeling that I would be the type of person who would want to get back right away,” she told The Conservateur. The demanding schedule has disrupted personal life: “It’s very difficult to make plans in this job,” she told the Daily Mail. “My husband and I had three different mini weekend getaway vacations this summer. All three got canceled due to foreign policy events.”
During the campaign, Leavitt set up a home studio to manage childcare and media hits, later bringing Niko to the office.
Did You Know?: ‘It’s Very Difficult’: Karoline Leavitt Reveals She’s Traumatized Working for Trump
Administration Insists Leavitt ‘Going Nowhere’
Lara Trump dismissed replacement rumors on Fox News: “Karoline Leavitt is a machine. She’s incredible. And she’s going nowhere. I’ve seen some stories out there… People saying ‘Who’s next in line?’ Nobody’s next in line. It’s Karoline. She can do everything.”
A senior White House official confirmed to Fox News Digital no plans for a permanent replacement exist, indicating limited maternity leave and a swift return.
The speculation veered into invasive territory, with users mocking Riccio’s age (“Dad is going to be 78 when the kids turn 18”) and making unfounded paternity claims. Leavitt’s appearance—previously in Vanity Fair photos drew renewed commentary.
As Trump’s youngest press secretary, Leavitt has become a lightning rod: praised by supporters for loyalty and energy, criticized by opponents for aggressive defenses and perceived misinformation.
Her role requires near-constant availability, raising questions about balancing motherhood with briefing room demands. The May due date falls during a busy pre-midterm period, potentially complicating coverage.
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Leavitt’s announcement—meant as a personal milestone has instead highlighted the challenges for women in high-profile political positions, where family news invites speculation, criticism, and judgment.
Administration sources insist her position is secure, backed by Trump family endorsements. Yet the rapid shift from celebration to replacement talk reflects Leavitt’s polarizing status: a dedicated “machine” to allies, a frequent target to critics.
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