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There’s a joyful new arrival in the Jarrett-Balkissoon household — and according to her parents, she’s already making her presence known. CNN Early Start co-anchor Laura Jarrett has officially become a mother of two, celebrating the birth of her daughter earlier this month. Jarrett and husband Tony Balkissoon welcomed their second child, a baby girl named June Tahay, on Sunday, July 17, at 9:22 a.m., her representative confirms.
For Jarrett and Balkissoon, who are also parents to their 3-year-old son James, the arrival of a new baby has filled their home with excitement, noise, and the kind of unforgettable chaos that only a newborn can bring. Jarrett tells PEOPLE the family is “so thrilled June is finally here!” adding with amusement that their daughter “has a big appetite and a big voice — fitting in the family already,” suggesting that the little one may follow the strong-willed, outspoken spirit of both her mother and grandmother.
The choice of June Tahay carries deep personal meaning. The baby’s first name, June, is taken from the middle name of Jarrett’s mother — Valerie Jarrett, one of the most influential political advisors of the modern era and a longtime friend and senior advisor to former President Barack Obama. Meanwhile, June’s middle name, Tahay, honors Balkissoon’s side of the family — it is the name of his mother, making it the perfect blend of tradition from both parents’ histories.
The name beautifully reflects two powerful maternal lineages, connecting the generations and honoring the women who shaped both Laura and Tony long before they became parents themselves. It’s a loving tribute — and perhaps a hope that little June will grow up carrying the strength and spirit of the women she’s named after.
Another source of joy for the family has been watching James, the couple’s older child, lean into his new role with surprising enthusiasm. Far from the classic sibling jealousy many fear, James has been eager to “help prep her bottles and sing to her — loudly,” Jarrett says. His excitement has become one of the sweetest parts of this life transition.
On Instagram, Jarrett gave followers a first glimpse of baby June in a precious newborn photo. Introducing her daughter to the world, she captioned the image:
“Meet June! Born 7/17. 6 lbs and 9 oz. Fan of formula, head wraps, and cuddles. Ready to meet her big brother James soon.”https://www.instagram.com/p/CgJ13qkuVZB/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fviewfindernews.com&rp=%2Fbtvkhanhhuyen%2Fhuyen7-laura-jarrett-the-cnn-early-start-co-anchor-known-for-covering-fast-moving-headlines-suddenly-became-the-center-of-one-her-daughters-arrival-brought-joy-cheers-and-a-mystery-bec%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A1933.8999999985099%2C%22ls%22%3A703.6999999955297%2C%22le%22%3A1929.1999999955297%7D
The post was met with waves of congratulations from colleagues, viewers, friends, and fellow journalists who have followed Jarrett’s career and family journey through the years.
Jarrett first shared the news of her pregnancy in April with a playful Instagram announcement starring James. The big brother-to-be proudly held a sign celebrating the upcoming arrival, while Jarrett joked in the caption about the little luxuries she was already anticipating after pregnancy — very cold Sauvignon Blanc, Retin-A, the ability to bend down and tie her sneakers again, and, of course, Advil.
Her sense of humor has always charmed fans, and that same warmth has carried over into the way she talks about motherhood — candid, grateful, and with a healthy dose of laughter.
Jarrett has been a prominent figure in broadcast journalism since joining CNN in 2016. Before transitioning to television, she built a highly respected legal career in Chicago, working on defense cases connected to U.S. government investigations and complex commercial litigation. A Harvard Law School graduate, she also has a strong record of scholarship, serving as Articles Selection co-chair for the Harvard Journal of Law and Gender and publishing work on the intersection of law, violence, and women’s safety.
She has covered major political events, legal battles, and public policy issues — all while balancing the demanding role of a morning show anchor. With the early call times required for Early Start, Jarrett has long been admired for her ability to juggle professional intensity with family life. And now, as a mother of two, she has embraced an even fuller version of that balance.https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb0EyiIrYmk/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fviewfindernews.com&rp=%2Fbtvkhanhhuyen%2Fhuyen7-laura-jarrett-the-cnn-early-start-co-anchor-known-for-covering-fast-moving-headlines-suddenly-became-the-center-of-one-her-daughters-arrival-brought-joy-cheers-and-a-mystery-bec%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A1%2C%22os%22%3A1935.1999999955297%2C%22ls%22%3A703.6999999955297%2C%22le%22%3A1929.1999999955297%7D
Colleagues have celebrated the news, noting that Jarrett — known for staying cool under the heat of breaking news — has always been equally enthusiastic when discussing life at home. Those close to her describe her as both fiercely dedicated to journalism and devoted to her family’s happiness.
As many working parents know, the transition to a family of four comes with new challenges and unforgettable milestones. But Jarrett and Balkissoon appear to be handling the shift with gratitude and joy — supported by family, friends, and a very enthusiastic big brother.
June’s early arrival into a household full of love, laughter, and strong role models already sets the stage for a bright future. Jarrett’s fans — and the broader CNN audience — will surely enjoy following her parenting updates as she begins this next chapter.
For now, the family is focused on enjoying the newborn days: the tiny outfits, the sleepy snuggles, the late-night feedings, and yes — those loud little cries that let the world know she’s here.
After all, as Jarrett said herself: June already has a big voice.
And she’s only just getting started.

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