Karoline Leavitt Cuts Maternity Leave Short After Trump Assassination Attempt — and Redefines What It Means to Be a Working Mom

Karoline Leavitt, the 27-year-old White House Press Secretary, made headlines this summer—not just for her political role, but for a deeply personal decision that has sparked widespread conversation about motherhood, work, and duty.

Just three days after giving birth to her son, Leavitt was settling in at home when news broke: Former President Donald Trump had narrowly survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13. That moment changed everything.

Leavitt chose to cut her maternity leave short and return to work almost immediately, stepping back into her role as the Trump campaign’s national press secretary. Her rapid return helped solidify her place in history as the youngest White House press secretary ever.

Balancing Motherhood and a High-Stakes Career

Speaking with Megyn Kelly, Leavitt admitted the timing was far from ideal. “The assassination attempt kind of threw me right back to work much sooner than I would have probably expected or hoped,” she said. “But becoming a mother during this chaotic political moment has given me perspective. It’s humbling.”

Leavitt’s newborn son, Nico, has become a grounding force in her life. “He doesn’t care about my job,” she said. “He just wants me to be present, to play, and to love him.” That daily reminder helps her balance the intense demands of her job with her role as a mom.

She credits a strong support network—her husband, parents, and close friends—for making the balance possible.

Rejecting the Idea That Women Have to Choose

With growing online discussions around “trad wives” and the value of stay-at-home motherhood, Leavitt and Kelly addressed criticism that women can’t successfully juggle both roles. “It’s a tough choice,” Leavitt acknowledged. “But I’m doing this work for my son and for all children. It’s not forever—this moment is temporary, and it’s an opportunity I may never have again.”

She added, “I reject the idea that you can’t be both a good mom and good at your job. It takes faith, work, and support—but it can be done.”

Earning Praise—Even From Critics

Leavitt’s decision and her performance in one of the White House’s most demanding jobs have drawn admiration, even from those across the aisle. Former Clinton press secretary Joe Lockhart told The Wall Street Journal, “By traditional standards she’d get an F. But if the goal is to please Trump, she gets an A-plus.”

Ari Fleischer, who served under President George W. Bush, emphasized Leavitt’s unique connection to Trump. “She’s in the Oval Office with him most of the day. She speaks his language and knows what to say—and what not to say,” he said.

No-Nonsense at the Podium

In recent weeks, Leavitt has gained a reputation for her tough, confident handling of the press. Whether brushing off hypothetical questions or challenging reporters directly, her style is sharp, quick, and unapologetically firm.

Her approach may not win over everyone—but it’s earned her respect as someone who can handle one of the most high-pressure communications roles in Washington.

Leavitt is now the sixth working mother in a row to serve as White House press secretary, a reminder that the demands of the job—and motherhood—are evolving.

“I came back to work because the President put his life on the line,” she said. “The least I could do was get back to work and help him win.”