Full Breakdown
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Announces Maternity Leave
4/25/2026, 8:36:33 PM
Final Press Briefing Before Maternity Leave
On April 24, 2026, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt held what she called “likely my last gaggle for some time.” She said she is “about ready to have a baby any minute,” expects to give birth to a daughter in early May, and confirmed she will attend the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on April 25 before beginning leave.
Background and Role
Leavitt, 28, was appointed press secretary in November 2024, becoming the youngest to hold the role. She gave birth to son Niko in July 2024 and returned to work within days after an assassination attempt on President Donald Trump. In a December 2024 Instagram post she announced her second pregnancy and thanked President Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles for fostering a pro-family environment.
Timeline of Announcements
- December 2024: Leavitt announces pregnancy via Instagram.
- April 24, 2026: Final press gaggle; announces imminent maternity leave.
- April 25, 2026: Attends White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner.
Data on Federal Parental Leave
The Hill reports that federal employees are eligible for 12 weeks of paid parental leave. The White House has not disclosed the exact length of Leavitt’s leave.
Official Statements and Responses
The White House told NewsNation that no formal replacement will be appointed; instead, a variety of administration officials will handle briefings, potentially including Cabinet members, Vice President JD Vance, or President Trump. Leavitt emphasized confidence in her team and noted the administration’s support for her family leave.
Criticism and Opposition
Multiple sources describe Leavitt as a combative spokesperson and a leading figure in the administration’s anti-media strategy. She has previously criticized CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins over coverage of U.S. troop casualties in the Iran conflict. Analysts note that despite her high-visibility role, President Trump’s approval ratings have continued to decline.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This will likely be my last gaggle for some time.” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary
- “As you can see, I’m about ready to have a baby any minute, so I’ll see you guys very soon,” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary
- “I know you'll be in very good hands with my team here at the White House, and I know all of you have the president's phone number personally,” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary
- “I am also extremely grateful to President Trump and our Chief of Staff Susie Wiles for their support, and for fostering a pro-family environment in the White House,” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary
What’s Next
In the weeks ahead, senior officials are expected to field routine press inquiries while Leavitt is on leave. The administration has not set a date for her return, but Leavitt indicated she will “see you guys very soon.” Monitoring of briefings will reveal how the White House manages communications in her absence.
