Former First Lady Melania Trump’s dedication to her son Barron’s well-being shapes her approach to her potential return to the White House, as she focuses on helping the 18-year-old navigate college life at New York University’s Stern School of Business.
“Melania worries about the hate in the country and how it falls on her son, who is innocent of any of this,” a source revealed.
The former First Lady has chosen to spend significant time in New York City, maintaining residence at Trump Tower while Barron attends classes. Sources indicate she declined an opportunity for Barron to serve as a Florida delegate at the 2024 Republican National Convention, continuing her pattern of protecting him from excessive public exposure.
“They talk about life as it is and how they are in the spotlight,” a source close to the family revealed. “She tries to normalize his life. If that is even possible.”
Despite his protected status, Barron has made a smooth transition into college life and has been well-received by his peers, earning popularity even among those with differing political views. A source familiar with the situation described him as personable and well-liked, with many students at NYU appreciating his down-to-earth demeanor despite his high-profile background. He has also gained a reputation on campus as a “ladies’ man” while maintaining a strong sense of privacy in his personal life.
For now, Barron lives at Trump Tower rather than in campus housing. This decision stems from Melania’s desire to provide him with as much support as possible during this important transition, balancing her public duties as first lady with her role as a mother.
Sources close to the family suggest this arrangement allows for a more stable and comfortable environment as Barron adjusts to the demands of college life. While this setup may not be permanent, Melania believes it is the best option to help her son succeed in his new chapter.
Despite his protected status, Barron has played an influential role in his father’s presidential campaign. Melania credits him for helping Donald Trump connect with younger voters through non-traditional media platforms. Barron was “very vocal,” advising his father to appear on podcasts and streaming services popular with Generation Z voters.
During his father’s campaign appearances, Barron’s media suggestions proved particularly effective. His recommendations for podcast appearances, including “The Joe Rogan Experience” and other popular platforms, helped the Trump campaign gain significant traction with younger audiences. On election night, Donald Trump acknowledged his son’s contributions, drawing enthusiastic applause from supporters.
As the Trump family prepares for a potential return to Washington, D.C., sources indicate Melania will likely adopt a nontraditional approach to the First Lady role, dividing her time between New York City, Palm Beach, Florida, and the White House. She is currently interviewing potential staff members for her second term while focusing on Barron’s adjustment to college life.
During her previous tenure as First Lady from 2017 to 2021, Melania maintained a relatively low profile, focusing on her BE BEST initiative, which addressed children’s well-being, online safety, and opioid abuse. She delayed moving to the White House until Barron could finish his school year in New York.
Looking ahead to her potential second term, Melania is expected to take on a more deliberate role while maintaining her independence and focus on children’s welfare and education. Sources familiar with her plans suggest she will prioritize her son’s well-being as he pursues his education in New York City.
