Karoline Leavitt calls secure elections 'vital part of democracy' as she returns to WH podium

WASHINGTON, DC: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed a press briefing on Thursday, July 16, after returning from her maternity leave, where she talked about a range of subjects, including the importance of fair elections.

This was Leavitt's first press briefing at the White House since she went on maternity leave in late April.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz were among those who stepped up in her absence.

Karoline Leavitt urges bipartisan support for election integrity

Karoline Leavitt, in her latest press briefing, highlighted the importance of secure and fair elections, saying they are essential to preserving the country’s democracy and constitutional republic.

Her remarks came as the Trump administration continues to emphasize election integrity as a key political issue.

Leavitt said that fair elections should be a non-partisan issue and Republicans and Democrats both should agree on this.

“If we don’t have safe and secure elections in our country, we cannot have a country. It is a vital part of our democracy and constitutional republic,” the press secretary stated.

Karoline Leavitt calls White House role public service

During the press briefing, Leavitt also acknowledged that it is honorable to serve as a White House official.

“I don't view this as a job. I view this as public service, on behalf of a president whom I firmly believe in, and in everything this administration is doing to really create a better country for my children and their future,” Leavitt said.

Leavitt said that she is grateful for both her roles as press secretary and mother.

“I'm very grateful for that, to both be working in this job but also to have two beautiful babies at home,” she added.

Press secretary welcomed second child in May

On May 7, Leavitt announced on Instagram that she and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, had officially welcomed their daughter Viviana (“Vivi”) a week earlier. They also share a 2-year-old son, Niko.

“She is perfect and healthy, and her big brother is joyfully adjusting to life with his new baby sister,” she wrote in her post’s caption. “We are enjoying every moment in our blissful newborn bubble.”

Back then, she had not officially resumed her briefing duties. But Leavitt was still seen at the White House and in President Donald Trump's orbit in recent weeks.