Donald Trump, after being re-elected as the President of the United States, was seen smiling brightly with his wife Melania after delivering a victory speech at the West Palm Beach Convention Center in Florida on November 6th, 2024. With Trump’s re-election, Melania is set to return to her position as the First Lady.
During Trump’s first term, Melania was known as the ‘reclusive First Lady’ due to her limited public appearances and activities. It remains to be seen if she will take on a more active role upon returning to the White House. Unlike Trump, who enjoys the spotlight and speaks freely, Melania maintained a low profile and avoided excessive media exposure.
Since May 2015, she has been involved in the “Be Best” initiative, aimed at combating online hate and discrimination against children, but she generally shied away from being in the public eye. This earned her the nickname ‘reclusive First Lady,’ and she was even referred to as ‘Rapunzel’ by Secret Service agents because she rarely left the White House. Her demeanor at diplomatic and public events often appeared awkward or reserved.
There were jokes that Melania looked genuinely relieved when President Joe Biden took office in January 2021, as the Trumps departed the White House, suggesting she was not fond of her role as First Lady or life in the White House. During Trump’s campaign for re-election, Melania’s absence fueled rumors of discord between the couple.
She did appear at the Republican National Convention in July but a mildly embarrassing moment occurred when Trump leaned in for a kiss, and she turned it into a cheek kiss, giving the impression she had avoided his lips. Moreover, in 2017, Melania famously pushed away Trump’s hand during their visit to Israel, explaining in her memoirs that it was due to walking in front of the Israeli Prime Minister and his wife.
However, Melania has shown support during critical times. After an assassination attempt on Trump in July, she issued a strong statement denouncing the attacker. As the election neared its end, she actively supported Trump in media interviews and praised him as the right person for the presidency.
Despite this support, reports suggest Melania might not reside in the White House if she returns as First Lady. Media speculate she may split her time between Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, and New York City.