A crucial federal funding legislation faces a pivotal moment as lawmakers race against time to prevent a government shutdown next month.
According to Just The News, the House Rules Committee pushed forward a comprehensive funding bill with a 9-4 party-line vote on Monday night, setting the stage for a full chamber vote on Tuesday.
The development marks a significant step in the Republican-led effort to secure federal funding, although the party's narrow majority leaves little room for dissent. With only one vote to spare, GOP leaders must navigate carefully through concerns about Medicaid cuts while maintaining unity within their ranks.
The $5 trillion spending package incorporates substantial allocations for border security initiatives championed by President Donald Trump and extends his 2017 tax cuts. This version stands in stark contrast to the Senate's previously approved $340 billion funding bill, which notably excludes the tax cut extensions.
House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole expressed optimism about the bill's prospects. He acknowledged the progress made in reaching a consensus on financial aspects while highlighting the remaining challenges.
Cole stated:
I think we've moved a long way on the numbers. We're very close. I would say essentially there. The real question is conditions on presidential action...
The legislative calendar adds pressure to the negotiations, with Congress facing a March 14 deadline to finalize funding legislation. This timeframe leaves lawmakers with limited opportunities to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions.
The House's procedural process includes two scheduled votes on Tuesday - an initial procedural vote at 1:30 p.m. followed by the final vote at 6 p.m. This structured approach aims to maintain momentum while allowing time for last-minute adjustments.
If the House successfully passes its version, the focus will shift to conference negotiations between the two chambers. These discussions must produce a compromise that satisfies both Congressional requirements and receives presidential approval.
Contentious elements of the funding package continue to generate debate among lawmakers. The inclusion of Trump's tax cut extensions represents a significant point of divergence between the House and Senate versions, potentially complicating reconciliation efforts.
The bill's journey through the Budget Committee earlier this month demonstrated Republican determination to advance their fiscal priorities. However, concerns about Medicaid reductions remain a potential stumbling block that could affect the final vote count.
Legislative outcomes could significantly impact multiple federal programs and policies. The resolution of these differences will determine not only immediate government operations but also the implementation of long-term fiscal policies.
The House Rules Committee's advancement of the federal funding bill represents a critical step toward maintaining government operations beyond March 14. Republican leaders must secure near-unanimous party support to pass their $5 trillion package, which includes border security funding and tax cut extensions. The final legislation requires reconciliation between House and Senate versions, followed by presidential approval, to prevent a government shutdown and implement proposed fiscal policies.
A high-stakes workplace accountability measure gains momentum as former President Donald Trump supports tech billionaire Elon Musk's controversial federal employee verification system.
According to the New York Post, Trump endorsed Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative requiring all federal employees to submit weekly work accomplishment reports by Monday night or face termination.
The measure aims to identify potential payroll fraud and non-existent employees within the federal workforce. The Office of Personnel Management distributed emails requesting approximately five bullet points detailing each worker's accomplishments from the previous week, with responses due by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday.
Several key government departments have instructed their staff to disregard the directive. The Departments of Defense, State, Homeland Security, Commerce, and Energy, along with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the FBI, have chosen not to comply with the mandatory reporting requirement.
The FBI's leadership emphasized their commitment to following established internal review processes. They directed employees to pause any responses to the DOGE initiative until further notice.
Musk maintained his stance on the reporting requirement despite departmental resistance. He warned that employees who fail to take the directive seriously would soon find themselves seeking employment elsewhere.
Federal unions, businesses, veterans, and conservation organizations have filed an updated lawsuit against Musk in San Francisco federal court. The legal action characterizes the mass firing threat as one of the most extensive employment frauds in American history.
The White House has defended the initiative through deputy press secretary Anna Kelly. She criticized the lawsuit as frivolous, suggesting that employees could have completed their work summaries multiple times instead of pursuing legal action.
Trump expressed during an Oval Office meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron his support for the measure, stating:
What he's doing is saying, 'Are you actually working?' If people don't respond, it's very possible that there is no such person, or they aren't working.
The DOGE initiative has already resulted in substantial workforce changes. More than 65,000 federal employees have accepted buyout offers, while an additional 20,000 workers have been terminated or placed on track for layoff.
Musk's team continues to pursue their goal of overhauling and downsizing the federal government. The DOGE director stated on X that the email requirement serves as a basic pulse check on the federal workforce.
The president claimed that DOGE investigations have uncovered hundreds of billions of dollars in fraud. Trump suggested that non-responses to the work verification email could indicate either non-existent employees or deceased individuals' identities being used to collect paychecks.
The Department of Government Efficiency's unprecedented email directive represents a significant shift in federal employee oversight, supported by both Trump and Musk despite agency resistance. The initiative has sparked legal challenges from various organizations while already resulting in substantial workforce reductions through buyouts and terminations. As the Monday deadline approaches, the outcome of this controversial measure could reshape the federal employment landscape and potentially expose fraudulent practices within the government payroll system.
The Duchess of Sussex faces another setback in her lifestyle brand launch as trademark issues arise with her newly announced As Ever brand name.
According to Daily Mail, Meghan Markle has been barred from selling clothing items under her As Ever brand due to name similarities with ASEVER, a Chinese fast-fashion company that supplies major retailers like H&M.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issued a 145-page partial rejection of Meghan's trademark application in July 2023, citing potential consumer confusion between the two brands. Her legal team subsequently revised the application in January 2024, removing all clothing-related items to secure trademark approval.
Documents filed by Meghan's lawyers in October 2022 originally sought permission to sell various products, including aprons, clothing items, jams, and dog biscuits, under the As Ever name. The USPTO determined that her brand name was too similar to the existing Chinese company ASEVER, particularly in sound and appearance.
A Los Angeles trademark attorney warned that proceeding with clothing sales under the As Ever brand could result in legal action. This development forces Meghan to choose a different brand name if she wishes to pursue a clothing line despite her significant influence on fashion trends.
The trademark complications extend beyond clothing categories. Her initial brand name choice, American Riviera Orchard, was rejected because geographical areas cannot be trademarked. Additionally, food company Harry & David objected to that name's similarity to their Royal Riviera pear products.
The Spanish village of Porreres in Mallorca has threatened legal action against the duchess, claiming she copied their traditional coat of arms that dates back to 1370.
The village's emblem bears a striking resemblance to As Ever's logo, which features a palm tree with two hummingbirds.
Mark Kolski, owner of a vintage clothing company called As Ever in New York since 2017, expressed gratitude to his supporters while acknowledging the situation. Kolski stated:
I want to say thank you to all the old friends who know and love our small family brand As Ever and also say hi to all those that have just become aware we exist. We are grateful for all the customers coast-to-coast and worldwide that have supported our venture.
The businessman confirmed he never trademarked the As Ever name, describing his operation as a small family-run business. He noted the significant difference in resources between his company and Meghan's Netflix-backed venture.
As Ever products will be sold through Netflix's retail channels, including standalone stores in Dallas and Philadelphia, as well as their online shopping platform. The streaming giant plans to launch Meghan's new lifestyle show "With Love, Meghan" on March 4.
Meghan explained her brand evolution on Instagram, saying that while American Riviera sounded appealing as a reference to her Santa Barbara neighborhood, it would have restricted her to locally manufactured and grown products. The revised As Ever brand allows for broader product offerings.
Recent developments reveal continued obstacles in Meghan Markle's attempt to establish her lifestyle brand. The USPTO's restriction on clothing sales under the As Ever name, combined with international disputes over brand elements and prior usage claims, presents significant challenges for the duchess's business venture. As the March 4 Netflix show premiere approaches, these trademark issues remain unresolved, potentially impacting the brand's product range and market positioning.
President Donald Trump has initiated a controversial move targeting federal agencies, signing an executive order to reduce government institutions he deems unnecessary.
Trump's bold step includes defunding the Presidio Trust, responsible for managing Presidio Tunnel Tops Park, a move perceived as a direct challenge to Rep. Nancy Pelosi, given her historical association with the park's development in San Francisco, as the Washington Examiner reports.
The executive order titled "Commencing the reduction of the federal bureaucracy" was signed on Thursday. It outlines a strategic reduction of certain federal entities to streamline operations. Among the institutions listed for defunding are the Inter-American Foundation, United States African Development Foundation, U.S. Institute of Peace, and the Presidio Trust. This has sparked discussions on the future operations of these agencies.
The Presidio Trust plays a significant role in managing the Presidio Tunnel Tops Park. This park is an integral tourist attraction in San Francisco, offering scenic views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The establishment of the park links back to 1994 when it was transferred from military use to the National Park Service, largely due to efforts by Pelosi and her colleague Dianne Feinstein.
Thanks to effective management and administration, the Presidio, over time, has developed self-sufficiency in its operations. This financial independence is a critical factor, allowing it to potentially withstand the impact of the recent executive order despite the planned federal funding cuts. The park's ability to continue operations remains a focal point of discussions around the order.
The executive order mandates the Presidio Trust to provide a comprehensive financial report to the Office of Management and Budget within two weeks. This requirement underscores the detailed scrutiny placed on the Trust's fiscal management in light of the intended defunding. The measure reflects the current administration's emphasis on accountability and fiscal restraint.
Pelosi, known for her longtime leadership in the House and vocal opposition to Trump, did not shy away from criticizing the decision. She remarked on the perceived motivations behind the executive order, questioning its intent, and emphasizing the need to prioritize issues like Medicaid. "What is the purpose of this?" she questioned, suggesting the order was a distraction from more pressing policy discussions.
Pelosi, who stepped down from her leadership position at the close of the last Congress, remains a significant figure in political circles. Her reduced visibility during Trump's second presidential term has not dulled her engagement with issues she considers important. Her criticisms extend beyond policy disagreements, questioning the very nature of leadership in the current presidential administration.
Pelosi's historical links with the Presidio's development and her critical stance on the order reflect deeper tensions between the current and former political leaders. Her comparison of Trump's view of leadership to that of a monarchy drew attention, underscoring the ongoing disputes between the two.
As discussions continue, the primary focus remains on ensuring that the institutions targeted by the order, especially those with significant cultural and social importance like the Presidio, are adequately prepared for potential funding challenges. Their self-sufficiency and strategic financial planning are likely to play a significant role in their future operations.
The story of the Presidio and its relation to this executive order highlights the broader implications of policy decisions that intertwine political legacies and administrative strategies. The outcome will not only impact those who visit the iconic park but also resonate throughout discussions on federal agency operations and accountability.
Given the park's ability to function independently, the actual impact on its day-to-day activities might be mitigated. However, this event serves as yet another chapter in the complex narrative of federal management under the current administration.
President Trump's executive order, while aimed at bureaucracy reduction, poses questions about the balance between effective governance and maintaining critical public resources. The developments around the Presidio Trust and Pelosi's response highlight the intricate dynamics of national policymaking.
The View, one of ABC News' flagship programs, is grappling with internal discord following recent reductions in staff numbers and mandates to moderate their commentary regarding President Donald Trump.
The daytime talk show is facing pressure to find an equilibrium between maintaining its hallmark debates and meeting newly imposed restrictions on political critiques, as the New York Post reports.
ABC News, a major player under Disney's corporate umbrella, recently implemented cost-cutting measures that led to layoffs on The View. Among those let go were nine staff members, including two prominently recognized female producers. This move was made as part of Disney's broader strategy to streamline operations and trim costs across its divisions.
These staff reductions have resulted in dwindling morale. As a former team member pointed out, the loss of experienced producers caught many by surprise. The resultant atmosphere is one of uncertainty, with many remaining staff members expressing anxiety about potential future changes.
Simultaneously, the show's executive direction to soften its take on President Trump has not been well received. A drive to moderate critical discussions of the incoming 47th U.S. president added to the discomfort among the hosts, historically known for their candid discourse on major political topics.
Pressure to reduce negative commentary on Trump appeared particularly evident before his upcoming inauguration. This has led to a palpable tension on set. Legal disclaimers were also introduced to provide caution during a recent discussion on Trump's cabinet nominees, further emphasizing the complications of addressing politically sensitive content.
Amid these changes, ABC News is reportedly mulling over the possibility of injecting more conservative viewpoints into the show. This approach aims to balance the panel's dynamic as they navigate a politically charged landscape. Despite such challenges, viewership figures for The View remain robust, with an average of 2.6 million viewers over the past month, showcasing the show's tenacity in retaining its audience amid turbulence.
Beyond the high-stakes political discussions and staffing changes, logistical hurdles have also surfaced. The move to a new studio space located in Hudson Square has proven unpopular. The shared working environment between The View and Tamron Hall has prompted practical frustrations, further muddying the waters.
Space limitations in the new facility, described as lacking abundant desk space, have been a point of contention. Accounts of crowded conditions with insufficient workspaces are reminiscent of many staffers' grievances regarding the transition downtown. However, these complaints stand in contrast to sentiments of those who praise the aesthetics and adequacy of the building, hinting at mixed opinions on the transition.
Adding to the show's whirlwind period, the news of a settlement in a defamation lawsuit involving Disney and Trump surfaced. Disney agreed to settle the dispute for $16 million after a misstatement made by ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos.
Despite the internal and external pressures, coordination between The View and Tamron Hall continues to run smoothly. Both productions are recognized for their capability to deliver multiple hours of live television weekly, a feat particularly noteworthy given the number of disruptions. Allegations of diva-like behavior from Hall add spice to the work environment, though it seems surface-level issues pale compared to broader operational strategies.
The underlying essence of The View as a platform fostering vibrant and diverse exchanges remains intact. Although "Morale is low" among staff amid transitions, the show's signature appeal — dynamic discussions on current events — continues to draw a loyal audience.
The programming's endeavors to ensure a formula of energetic debates and a kaleidoscope of perspectives is precisely what keeps eyes glued to screens. Even as the hosts cautiously navigate new guidelines, viewers are tuned in to see thoughtful discussion and occasionally fiery conversation that has defined the show's staying power over the years. Ultimately, The View continues to captivate audiences while managing its internal restructuring and strategic adjustments, reaffirming its role as a leading voice in daytime television.
A former Chicago mobster has made explosive claims about President John F. Kennedy's assassination as discussions about classified documents intensify.
According to the Daily Mail, James Files, an 83-year-old ex-mobster, maintains he fired the fatal shot that killed President Kennedy in 1963 while dismissing former President Donald Trump's recent executive order to release remaining classified files as futile.
Files allege he was positioned behind a fence on the grassy knoll in Dallas' Dealey Plaza when he took the shot that ended Kennedy's life. He claims his boss, Charles 'Chuckie' Nicoletti, fired another shot from the book depository, the same location where Lee Harvey Oswald was believed to be during the assassination.
The former mobster's account includes details about an alleged conspiracy between the CIA and organized crime figures. Files claim he was part of a CIA-trained team that originally prepared for the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961 before being recruited for the assassination plot.
Files asserts that following his military service, he became Nicoletti's right-hand man, working under Chicago mob boss Sam Giancana. He suggests the CIA turned against Kennedy after the president halted the Bay of Pigs operation, leading the agency to collaborate with mobsters for the assassination.
Files says, as quoted from his recent statement:
Before I lost my line of sight, I took the fatal shot. I hit Kennedy in the right temple, and blew the back side of his head out. The government tells a lie, they have to live the lie. I don't think Trump will get any further than what's already been disclosed.
The decision to release the remaining classified files has created a rift within the Kennedy family. While Robert Kennedy Jr., Trump's health secretary, and JFK's nephew, supports the declassification, Jack Schlossberg, Kennedy's grandson, strongly opposes it.
The National Archives currently holds approximately 14,000 pages of newly discovered documents related to the assassination. The FBI's recent discovery of these materials has sparked both optimism and skepticism about potential revelations.
Trump's executive order for declassification follows his previous attempt during his first term, which was halted after CIA and FBI officials argued some documents could compromise national security. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had advised against the release during Trump's first term.
James Files first made his assassination claims in the 1990s while serving time for attempting to murder two police officers. His account has been consistently dismissed by investigators over the years, with the Warren Commission concluding Oswald acted alone.
The remaining classified documents could contain information about various aspects of the investigation, including surveillance of Oswald, details about a Cuban hitman, and Kennedy's plans regarding the CIA. The files might also reveal more about Oswald's activities in Mexico City weeks before the assassination.
Experts remain skeptical about finding major revelations that would change the accepted version of events in the remaining documents. However, the ongoing investigation and declassification efforts continue to generate public interest and debate.
James Files, an elderly former Chicago mobster, has reignited discussions about President Kennedy's 1963 assassination by claiming responsibility for the fatal shot. His statements come as Trump's executive order to release remaining classified documents faces both support and opposition from Kennedy family members while intelligence agencies prepare to review thousands of newly discovered pages related to the historic investigation.
One of Italy's most influential chemists who helped revolutionize breakfast tables worldwide has passed away.
According to Fox News, Francesco Rivella, the chemist credited with creating Nutella, died on Valentine's Day at the age of 97.
Rivella's journey with Ferrero began in 1952 when he joined the company's chemistry department fresh from completing his degree in bromatological chemistry in Turin.
His expertise and dedication would later contribute to developing one of the world's most beloved hazelnut spreads.
The story of Nutella's creation traces back to 1946 when Pietro Ferrero launched Giandujot, a chocolate hazelnut confection that could be sliced and spread on bread. This initial product drew inspiration from gianduja, a traditional Italian sweet combining chocolate and hazelnuts.
By 1951, the company had transformed the original recipe into a more spreadable cream called SuperCrema. This innovation marked a significant step toward the creation of the Nutella known today.
Rivella's work in Ferrero's chemistry room proved instrumental in perfecting the formula. Together with Michele Ferrero, Pietro's son, he traveled extensively to study various confections, seeking ways to improve upon existing recipes rather than simply replicating them.
The chemist's dedication to innovation culminated in 1964 when Ferrero introduced the first jar of Nutella to the world. The spread's recipe, consisting of seven carefully selected ingredients including sugar, palm oil, hazelnuts, milk, cocoa, lecithin, and vanillin, has remained largely unchanged since its debut.
A Ferrero spokesperson shared the company's sentiments about Rivella's passing:
We are saddened by the passing of Mr. Francesco Rivella. He spent many years working for our company, and, like all Ferrero colleagues, he contributed greatly to the success of our company and the growth of our brands that are loved by many.
Throughout his tenure at Ferrero, Rivella rose through the ranks to become a senior manager, working closely with Michele Ferrero as his trusted advisor. Their partnership helped establish Nutella as a global phenomenon that continues to be celebrated today, with World Nutella Day observed annually on February 5.
The Italian chemist's influence on global food culture began at age 25 when he first joined Ferrero's chemistry department. His contributions helped transform a local Italian confection into an international breakfast staple.
Rivella spent his retirement years pursuing fruit farming and enjoying pallapugno, a traditional Italian sport. He is survived by three sons, a daughter, and seven grandchildren. His funeral was scheduled for Monday in Alba, where he resided after retirement, with burial planned in Barbaresco.
In a poignant coincidence, Rivella's death occurred exactly ten years after the passing of his longtime collaborator Michele Ferrero, who died on February 14, 2015. Together, they created a product that would become a cherished part of millions of households worldwide.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency intervenes in unprecedented overseas spending decisions.
According to Breitbart, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has halted $10 million in U.S. taxpayer funding initially allocated for voluntary male circumcision programs in Mozambique, among other international initiatives totaling $729 million in cancelled expenditures.
The watchdog initiative, led by Elon Musk, revealed multiple overseas programs that were previously approved for U.S. funding. These programs ranged from public procurement improvements in Serbia to political landscape strengthening in Bangladesh, demonstrating the extensive reach of American taxpayer dollars across various international development projects.
Former U.S. Department of Energy nuclear scientist Matt Van Swol expressed strong disapproval of the spending allocations. His response highlighted growing concerns about prioritizing international aid over domestic infrastructure needs.
The circumcision program in Mozambique represents just one component of a larger pattern of overseas healthcare spending that has recently come under scrutiny. This revelation comes amid ongoing investigations into other healthcare-related expenditures in the region.
The funding cancellation occurs during a period of increased attention to federal spending oversight, particularly regarding international health initiatives. Other cancelled programs included substantial allocations for educational and political development across multiple continents.
Recent developments have triggered responses from key congressional leaders, particularly regarding healthcare spending in Mozambique. Republican lawmakers have launched investigations into related funding matters concerning the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Senator Jim Risch, serving as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has taken a leading role in examining these expenditures. His involvement stems from concerns about potential violations of existing regulations governing international aid.
The committee's findings have sparked debates about the appropriate use of U.S. foreign aid and the mechanisms for oversight of international health programs. These discussions continue to shape policy decisions regarding future funding allocations.
The DOGE initiative's comprehensive review identified numerous other significant expenditures scheduled for cancellation. A gender equality and women empowerment hub was set to receive $40 million in funding before the intervention.
The largest single item among the cancelled programs was the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening, which had been allocated $486 million. This program included various international democratic development initiatives across multiple countries.
Van Swol addressed the magnitude of these expenditures, stating:
It is genuinely horrifying to see how much money the American people were sending to OTHER COUNTRIES while our own infrastructure is crumbling.
The Department of Government Efficiency's intervention marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid distribution, with the cancellation of $10 million in circumcision funding in Mozambique representing just one aspect of broader spending cuts. The total savings of $729 million from cancelled international programs reflects a substantial redirection of taxpayer funds, prompting ongoing discussions about the balance between domestic needs and international aid commitments.
A respiratory ailment forces Pope Francis to undergo urgent medical treatment at a Vatican hospital.
According to Just The News, the Vatican revealed Monday that Pope Francis is battling a "polymicrobial infection" of his respiratory tract, requiring modifications to his existing treatment plan.
The pontiff's condition has been described as complex by Vatican officials, necessitating extended hospitalization for proper medical attention. His admission to the hospital on Friday came after he experienced symptoms, including a mild fever, marking another chapter in his ongoing health challenges.
The Pope's current medical situation adds to a pattern of health issues that have impacted his ability to perform his duties. His medical history includes the removal of one lung during his younger years, a procedure that has contributed to his recurring respiratory complications. In recent times, the pontiff has increasingly relied on mobility aids, including a wheelchair and walker, to maintain his active schedule.
These health challenges have not deterred Pope Francis from his responsibilities, though they have necessitated adaptations in how he carries out his papal duties. The Vatican's medical team continues to monitor his condition closely, conducting comprehensive tests to determine the best course of treatment.
The Vatican statement addressed the severity of the Pope's condition. According to Vatican officials: "All the tests carried out to date are indicative of a complex clinical picture that will require adequate hospitalization."
This latest health episode follows a similar incident in 2023 when the Pope was hospitalized for chest pain and fever. The pattern of hospitalizations has raised questions about the long-term management of his health conditions. The recurring nature of his respiratory issues has required increasingly careful medical attention and monitoring.
The Vatican's medical team has maintained transparency about the Pope's condition while ensuring he receives the necessary care. Their approach combines treating immediate symptoms while managing his chronic health issues. The current hospitalization represents a continuation of their comprehensive healthcare strategy.
The Pope remains under observation as doctors work to address the polymicrobial infection affecting his respiratory system. His medical team continues to conduct tests and adjust treatments as needed, ensuring optimal care for his complex condition.
The Vatican's communication about the Pope's health maintains a balance between transparency and privacy. Their updates provide necessary information while respecting medical confidentiality. This approach helps manage public concern while allowing the medical team to focus on treatment.
Pope Francis's latest hospitalization demonstrates the ongoing impact of his respiratory issues on his papal ministry. The current infection, described as polymicrobial, requires careful treatment and monitoring by Vatican medical professionals at their specialized facilities.
The situation began when the pontiff entered the hospital on Friday with a mild fever and respiratory infection. Vatican officials later confirmed the complexity of his condition through extensive medical testing, leading to the decision for extended hospitalization and treatment modification.
The medical team continues to adapt their approach as they monitor the Pope's response to treatment. Their immediate focus remains on addressing the current infection while managing his underlying health conditions, particularly considering his history of respiratory issues and previous lung surgery.
A 27-year-old White House Press Secretary breaks multiple records while juggling new motherhood and a demanding role in the Trump administration.
According to the New York Post, Karoline Leavitt resumed her duties as Trump campaign spokeswoman just four days after giving birth to her son Nicholas "Niko" Robert on July 10, continuing through a dramatic period that included an assassination attempt on the former president.
The new mother's swift return to work coincided with Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where she watched from home while holding her newborn as the president survived the first of two assassination attempts. Leavitt's commitment to her role remained unwavering as she returned to the campaign trail the following day, demonstrating remarkable dedication to both her professional responsibilities and new family.
Leavitt, who secured her position as the youngest-ever White House Press Secretary at age 27, recently introduced her seven-month-old son to President Trump during her swearing-in ceremony.
Her pregnancy journey paralleled her professional advancement, as she managed campaign responsibilities while expecting throughout the first half of 2024.
Speaking about her dual roles, Leavitt shared her perspective on combining motherhood with her high-profile position. According to Leavitt:
Being a mom helps me to be better at my job. It gives me a great perspective on life and allows me to remember that not every bad day is the end of the world because my greater purpose is being a mom.
The press secretary emphasized the family-friendly atmosphere in the Trump White House, noting numerous colleagues, both men and women, who are also parents to young children.
Leavitt's appointment follows a pattern of working mothers serving in key White House positions under Trump's leadership. Kayleigh McEnany previously held the role while parenting a five-month-old daughter, and Sarah Huckabee Sanders managed her duties as press secretary while raising three children under age five.
Trump's interaction with staff members' children recently gained attention when a video surfaced showing him taking photos with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's five-year-old daughter Valentina, who has Down Syndrome. The president displayed his paternal side by playfully lifting the young girl onto his lap for additional photos.
Discussing her working relationship with Trump, Leavitt expressed appreciation for his leadership style:
I very much enjoy working for a boss who's incredibly transparent, honest, and open all the time. It actually makes my job easier to work with someone like President Trump, who speaks for himself and is decisive, and is the true leader of our team at the White House.
Karoline Leavitt, alongside her husband Nicholas Riccio, has established herself as a groundbreaking figure in White House communications. Her historic appointment as the youngest press secretary coincides with her role as a new mother to seven-month-old Niko.
The press secretary's return to work merely days after giving birth demonstrated her commitment to both her family and professional duties, particularly during crucial moments such as Trump's survival of an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.
As the administration moves forward, Leavitt continues to represent a new generation of leadership while maintaining the delicate balance between motherhood and her responsibilities as the White House's primary spokesperson.