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Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary for President Donald Trump, announced on Thursday (May 7) that she has given birth to her second child, making history as the first person to give birth while serving in this position. Leavitt shared the news in an Instagram post, saying, "On May 1st, Viviana aka 'Vivi' joined our family, and our hearts instantly exploded with love." She added that her daughter is "perfect and healthy" and that her older son is adjusting to life with his new baby sister.
"On May 1st, Viviana aka “Vivi” joined our family, and our hearts instantly exploded with love. 💕 She is perfect and healthy, and her big brother is joyfully adjusting to life with his new baby sister. We are enjoying every moment in our blissful newborn bubble," Leavitt wrote.
"Thank you to everyone who reached out with prayers during my pregnancy - I truly felt them throughout the entire experience. God is Good.🙏"
Leavitt thanked President Trump and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles for their support and for "fostering a pro-family environment in the White House."
The White House has not specified how long Leavitt will be on maternity leave, but federal employees are generally entitled to up to twelve weeks of paid parental leave. During her absence, the White House plans to have a rotating group of administration officials brief the press, which could include President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance.
Leavitt, who is 28 years old, is also the youngest press secretary in White House history. Her tenure has been marked by several firsts. She is the first White House press secretary to be pregnant and give birth while in office. In addition to her historic role, she has restructured the traditional press briefing format by giving more opportunities to new media voices, such as podcasters and independent journalists.
She plans to return to her position following her maternity leave.