Karoline Leavitt Quits Trump White House Job to Put Motherhood Before High-Powered Career
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is resigning at the end of August, citing the pressures of one of the most visible positions in Washington as too much of a strain on her time and attention to give to her two young children.
The youngest White House press secretary in history, Leavitt, 28, said she was leaving after returning from maternity leave after giving birth to her daughter, Viviana, in May. She also has two-year-old son Nicholas Riccio and a husband.
Leavitt, in announcing her decision, said that being the press secretary for President Donald Trump was an honour, but that she has struggled to balance that with her role as a mother of a newborn and a toddler.
She finally realized she could not be the mother her kids deserve while constantly being asked to do things for them.
Her choice highlights a dilemma for parents with demanding jobs: balancing work and family responsibilities for a young family.
The job of press secretary to the White House is demanding, requiring long hours, public attention and constant availability, especially for a parent with young children.
Trump called Leavitt one of his most trusted aides and said she would continue to serve as an outside adviser after she leaves the White House.
Her departure also highlights how career decisions can change as family circumstances evolve. Leavitt’s decision to leave a strong political role is an opportunity to spend more time with her young children.
The White House has yet to announce her replacement.
