WH press sec Karoline Leavitt shares never-before-seen pics and admits she feels 'guilty' as she opens up on family life | The US Sun

Karoline Leavitt, the youngest White House Press Secretary in history at just 27 years old, has become a polarizing figure in the political spotlight. Known for her fiery exchanges with reporters and unflinching loyalty to President Donald Trump, Leavitt has navigated the high-stakes world of Washington, D.C., with a confidence that belies her age. But behind the polished podium presence and carefully curated image lies a deeply personal struggle—one that has only recently come to light.

Leavitt has opened up about the challenge of balancing her demanding career with her new role as a mother, revealing a vulnerability that contrasts sharply with her public persona. Yet, whispers of a darker, more haunting past have begun to surface, hinting at a childhood marked by neglect that may still cast a shadow over her life today.

Leavitt’s journey to the White House is nothing short of remarkable. Born on August 24, 1997, in New Hampshire, she graduated from Saint Anselm College in 2019 with a degree in politics and communication. Her early career included a stint at local TV station WMUR, where she initially aspired to be a reporter, before pivoting to politics.

She quickly rose through the ranks, working as an assistant press secretary under Kayleigh McEnany during Trump’s first administration, and later serving as the national press secretary for his 2024 campaign. Her appointment as White House Press Secretary in January 2025 cemented her status as a rising star in the Republican Party. But while her professional ascent has been meteoric, Leavitt’s personal life tells a more complex story—one of sacrifice, guilt, and a lingering pain from her formative years.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt giving a press briefing.

In a recent interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network, Leavitt shared a rare glimpse into her struggle to balance her high-powered role with motherhood. She gave birth to her son, Nicholas “Niko” Robert, in July 2024, just months before her appointment as press secretary. “I spend every second that I possibly can with my son when I’m home on weekends and evenings,” she said, her voice tinged with emotion. Yet, she admitted to feeling “guilty” about the time she spends away from him, a sentiment that resonates with many working mothers.

“I think every working mother understands the demands,” she added, acknowledging the challenge of juggling her White House duties with her desire to be present for her child. Leavitt’s candor about her struggle has humanized her to some, but it also raises questions about the toll her career has taken on her family life—and whether her past has shaped her approach to parenting in ways she may not fully realize.

Leavitt’s husband, Nick, a self-employed businessman, has been a pillar of support, along with her family. She credits them for helping her return to work just days after giving birth, a decision she felt compelled to make given the historic nature of Trump’s 2024 campaign. “I went back to work just days after giving birth. I have learned to multi-task and prioritize my time,” she explained in a series of Instagram posts. Her determination to seize the “opportunity of a lifetime” as press secretary is admirable, but it comes at a cost.

“I remind myself this job is temporary,” she said, expressing hope that one day her son will be proud of her achievements. Yet, beneath this optimism lies a deeper, more troubling revelation—one that hints at a childhood marked by emotional neglect.

In the same interview, Leavitt shared a cryptic comment about her upbringing that has sparked speculation about her past. “My parents didn’t pay attention to me when I was young,” she said, her tone matter-of-fact but heavy with unspoken pain. She didn’t elaborate, but the statement offers a rare window into the experiences that may have shaped her relentless drive and need for validation.

Growing up in New Hampshire, Leavitt was raised in a Catholic household where hard work and determination were instilled from a young age. She shared nostalgic photos of herself as a child, including one where she’s baking cookies, smiling brightly while holding a Pillsbury Doughboy oven mitt. But behind these idyllic images lies a story of feeling unseen—a wound that may still influence her today.

Young Karoline Leavitt baking.

Karoline Leavitt with her husband and baby in front of the White House.

Psychologists often note that childhood neglect, even if not overtly abusive, can have lasting effects. A lack of parental attention can lead to feelings of inadequacy, a need for external validation, and an intense drive to prove one’s worth—traits that seem to align with Leavitt’s relentless ambition. Her rapid rise in politics, her willingness to return to work mere days after giving birth, and her fierce loyalty to Trump all suggest a woman determined to be seen and valued, perhaps in ways she never was as a child. This “dark childhood secret,” as some have dubbed it, may not be a scandal in the traditional sense, but its emotional weight is undeniable. It raises questions about how Leavitt’s past informs her present, particularly as she navigates the dual roles of press secretary and mother.

Leavitt’s struggle to balance her career and family life is not unique, but her position in the public eye amplifies the scrutiny. During her tenure as press secretary, she has faced criticism for everything from her “Republican makeup” routine to her fiery exchanges with reporters. In one notable incident, she snapped at CNN’s Kaitlan Collins over repeated questions about a government leak, abruptly ending the press conference and storming off the stage.

Her decision to ditch her signature cross necklace during a briefing also sparked debate, with some accusing her of hypocrisy given her public identification as a Christian. These moments of tension highlight the pressure she faces, both professionally and personally, as she tries to maintain her composure while grappling with internal conflicts.

Despite these challenges, Leavitt remains steadfast in her faith and her commitment to her family. “God knew what he was doing, I believe, and you just have to trust the process,” she said, reflecting on her journey to the White House. Her faith has been a source of strength, even as critics like Democratic Rep. Dave Min have called her a “fake Christian” over her support for controversial Trump policies.

Leavitt’s response has been to double down on her values, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance—values she hopes to pass on to her son. “If he knows his worth is not from any other person, but from God, he can accomplish anything,” she said, echoing her own journey of self-reliance.

As Leavitt continues to navigate her role in the Trump administration, her story serves as a reminder of the complexities behind public figures. Her struggle to balance power meetings with family moments is a universal one, but the shadow of her childhood neglect adds a layer of depth to her narrative.

It’s a “hidden struggle” that has only now been unveiled, offering a glimpse into the personal battles that shape her public persona. Whether she can find peace with her past while forging a future for her family remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Karoline Leavitt’s journey is far from over, and the world will be watching as she writes the next chapter.