JD Vance Jokes Karoline Leavitt as Possible VP Paternity Leave Stand-In
Vice President JD Vance recently stepped into the role of White House Press Secretary as Karoline Leavitt remains on maternity leave. And while stand-up comedy isn't exactly the VP's strong suit, he started the briefing with a joke that raised eyebrows.
What Did JD Vance Say About Karoline Leavitt?
After telling the White House Press corps that, "It's cool to be here," Vance continued, "I'm going to give a shout out, of course, to the person I am replacing today, Karoline Leavitt. Who hopefully is at home enjoying some time with her beautiful Kids. I told Karoline I would stand in for her today for the White House press briefing on the condition that when Usha has our baby in July that she would be Vice President for a couple weeks."
Of course, Vance's comment was only in jest. And yes, the press got the joke (as evidenced by their audible laughter).
How Long Will Karoline Leavitt Stay On Maternity Leave?
Leavitt announced her maternity leave in April, right before the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting. On April 24, she posted a message on Instagram about the upcoming birth of her daughter, adding, "Be back soon!" Little did she know that would mean the following day. While she did briefly return to her official duties immediately following the WHCD, she resumed her maternity leave ASAP and gave birth to baby Vivi on May 1.
The Press Secretary hasn't given a specific date for her return to work. Based on recent Instagram posts, the new mom of two (she and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, also have an almost-two-year-old son, Niko) is enjoying her time off. Along with an absolutely adorable birth announcement, Leavitt shared a sweet pic of newborn Vivi cuddled on her lap to her Instagram Stories. She also posted several Mother's Day photos of herself, her own mother, and big brother Niko with the newest member of the Leavitt-Riccio family.
When Will Usha Vance Give Birth?
As the VP said in his somewhat silly speech, his wife, Usha, is due in July of 2026. Baby Vance will join the couple's other children, Ewan (born in 2017), Vivek (born in 2020), and Mirabel (born in 2021).
Is JD Vance a Permanent Replacement for Karloline Leavitt?
No, Vance is not trading his VP role for the Press Secretary job. Instead of naming one full-time replacement, the administration is switching things up with a rotation of notable names.
Vance isn't the only politician to take the podium recently. In early May, Secretary of State Marco Rubio served as a stand-in.
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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 8:26 AM.