As the 2024 United States presidential race heats up, former First Lady Melania Trump has reached an important agreement with her husband, Republican candidate Donald Trump.
The deal stipulates that if Donald Trump is reelected, Melania will not assume the full duties of First Lady, according to Page Six. This agreement is rooted in Melania’s wish to support their son, Barron Trump, who has started college in New York City.
Emphasizing her commitment to her son, who recently graduated high school, Melania plans to spend a portion of each month, and possibly each week, in New York City to provide support for Barron.
The former First Lady is particularly concerned about the extra stress and attention Barron may encounter as a president’s son. Barron, who has never been entirely independent, will have to navigate the challenges of being a college freshman, potentially as a president’s son, in a predominantly Democratic city. Melania is also worried about reactions towards Barron’s Secret Service detail at his school.
Melania has consistently prioritized Barron’s well-being, often shielding him from political scrutiny. During Donald Trump’s first term, she was notably private, prioritizing her son’s welfare. This protective stance was evident when she declined an offer for Barron to be a Republican delegate at the 2024 Republican National Convention.
This arrangement also highlights Melania’s desire to maintain a sense of normalcy for Barron amidst political turmoil.
Donald Trump has reportedly accepted this arrangement, recognizing the crucial role Melania plays in Barron’s life. This agreement underlines a balance between Melania’s roles as a mother and potential First Lady. Donald Trump trusts Melania to manage their son’s upbringing in a manner similar to how he depended on his first wife, Ivana Trump, to raise their children.
Melania’s quiet approach to her husband’s campaign has led to varying interpretations. Some think it could be a strategic move, while others believe it reflects her preference for privacy. Former aide Stephanie Grisham states that Melania’s “work” during her time as First Lady involved creating detailed photo albums of her White House tenure.
The November 5 vote will decide whether the Trumps return to the White House. If Donald Trump emerges victorious, Melania’s part-time First Lady role will represent a departure from traditional norms.
Melania’s tenure as First Lady combined both traditional and non-traditional roles. She faced criticism, particularly for her anti-bullying campaign given her husband’s controversial reputation. This new arrangement further emphasizes her dedication to balancing her ceremonial duties with her maternal responsibilities.
Besides focusing on Barron’s college life, Melania has noticeably distanced herself from public view amid Donald Trump’s ongoing legal issues. She has maintained a strict privacy barrier around her family, underscoring the importance of privacy and protection for Barron. Melania reportedly disapproved of Donald Trump using Barron’s graduation to vent about the judge in his hush money trial.
