Karoline Leavitt’s fiery clash with GMA’s Michael Strahan earns her a bold and mean new nickname
6 mins
Following a fiery exchange with Good Morning America host Michael Strahan, supporters have dubbed White House press secretary as the “grim reaper”
Strahan questioned Leavitt about President Donald Trump’s plan to bring federal employees back to in-office work five days a week in Washington, D.C. Expressing concern about a potential exodus of experienced federal professionals, Strahan asked:
“Is there any concern that we risk losing people with years of experience like doctors and let’s say, scientists?”
Leavitt wasted no time responding: “Well, most doctors who work in actual hospitals and medical institutions have to show up in the office.”
Her comeback quickly went viral, with supporters sharing clips across social media. One post on X (formerly Twitter) exclaimed, “Karoline Leavitt just took another soul on live TV. She’s like the fake news’ GRIM REAPER,” accompanied by a video that racked up over 3 million views.
Just a day before the GMA appearance, Leavitt made her debut in the White House press briefing room, announcing a major change in how media credentials are distributed. In a move to broaden access, she opened the doors to nontraditional outlets and independent creators.
“Whether you are a TikTok content creator, a blogger, a podcaster, if you are producing legitimate news content, no matter the medium, you will be allowed to apply for press credentials in this White House,” she declared.
The announcement generated immediate interest, with over 7,400 people applying for press seats within hours.
Away from the podium, Leavitt embraces life as a new mother. She lives with her husband, Nicholas Riccio, and their baby boy, Niko. Despite being in the midst of a demanding political campaign, Leavitt received an offer from Trump campaign advisors Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita, even while expecting her child.
She gave birth in July and returned to work just three days later following the attempted assassination of President Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
“The president literally put his life on the line to win this election. The least I could do is get back to work quickly,” she said in an October interview with The Conservator.
Leavitt credited Trump’s leadership style, stating: “He doesn’t care if you’re a man or a woman, with kids or no kids. He just wants the hardest worker and the best person for the job. And that’s what makes him a great boss.”
She later reflected on the personal sacrifices of the role, posting on social media: “I remind myself this job is temporary, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, and I know one day he will be proud of his mama.”
Not Her First Viral Moment
This isn’t the first time Leavitt has captured national attention. In June, she appeared on CNN and criticized moderators Jake Tapper and Dana Bash for potential bias ahead of the presidential debate.
The interview abruptly ended when CNN anchor Kasie Hunt cut her microphone and defended her colleagues’ journalistic integrity.
While campaign trail combativeness is often expected, one commentator noted that Leavitt’s aggressive tone may need adjusting now that President Trump has returned to office. Still, her growing fanbase views her as a fearless and unfiltered communicator who isn’t afraid to challenge the media status quo.
As Leavitt continues to redefine the role of press secretary in the Trump White House, her rapid rise in influence—and nickname as the “grim reaper” of the mainstream media—suggests she’s just getting started.
