Karoline Leavitt is putting the rumors about her exit from the White House to bed.
The former White House press secretary debunked a “stupid online rumor” about why she left her post, writing on Instagram that there was “zero truth” surrounding claims that she quit because President Donald Trump failed to inform her about a safety threat while she was aboard Air Force One.
“Please stop believing everything you see on social media and read actual news,” Leavitt wrote in response to a follower’s question. “I was not on that plane. I was not even on that trip. I was home with my kids.”
Leavitt announced her departure on Aug. 12, citing her desire to spend more time with her family. She has two children with her husband, Nicholas Riccio, 60: a daughter born in May and a son.
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Leavitt added that even if she had been on that plane, on that trip, that wouldn’t have been a good enough reason to leave the job.
“Every time you step on Air Force One, you know the risk of traveling with the President. I have been to the Middle East with him before. I have spoken on matters of war at the podium which also comes with great risk,” she said. “Threats come with the job.”
In addition to setting the record straight about her departure, Leavitt also answered various questions followers had about her family life and career, including why she chose TV over being the president’s spokesperson.
Karoline Leavitt says new gig can’t be compared to her old one
Karoline Leavitt‘s new gig, serving as an on-air contributor for Fox News, gives her something her old job couldn’t: more time and freedom to spend with her family.
Known for her combative and energetic communications style behind the podium, Leavitt quickly became one of the administration’s most recognizable public faces. Leavitt often set the tone for the White House’s handling of a wide range of issues.
Leavitt revealed that she was “working in the office 60+ hours a week, traveling the world, and always on call 24/7” during her 18-month tenure as press secretary.
“Now, I am home with my kids every day and doing some TV hits,” she said in her response to a follower who was wondering why she left the position if she was still going to work. “These things are not the same, ma’m.”
Contributing: Joey Garrison, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Karoline Leavitt responds to ‘stupid’ rumor about White House exit
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