Donald Trump’s Family: Less Formally Involved in White House Business in Second Term
The Trump family will likely have a less prominent role in White House business during the president’s second term. While some family members will continue to play a key role as unofficial advisors, others will be less involved or pursue other pursuits. Here is a look at how Trump’s wife, five children, and other relatives will participate in the new administration:
Melania Trump
Melania Trump, who has been first lady since 2017, returns to the White House for her second term. She has been her own boss, often prioritizing her own interests over those of her husband. This time around, she plans to make the White House her primary residence, differing from her first term when she waited for son Barron to finish school.
Melania has traditionally fulfilled her first lady duties, including organizing state dinners and promoting her favorite causes. Her 2020 visit to a migrant children’s shelter, wearing a coat with the slogan "I really don’t care, do you?" caused controversy, showcasing her ability to court attention and spark conversation.
Donald Trump Jr.
Donald Trump Jr., the eldest Trump son, has been a prominent figure in the MAGA movement. His podcast, "Triggered," has been influential among the president-elect’s most ardent supporters. He played a significant role in the selection of JD Vance as vice president.
However, Don Jr. has reportedly decided against taking on an official role in the new administration, instead opting to continue his work as a Trump Organization executive vice president.
Ivanka Trump
Ivanka Trump, the president-elect’s daughter, largely distanced herself from politics after leaving the White House in 2019. Her husband, Jared Kushner, a former senior White House advisor, has also been out of the administration.
Ivanka stated she would not rejoin the administration, citing the potential impact on her children. She previously previewed this decision in a statement when her father launched his 2024 campaign.
Eric Trump
Eric Trump, the president-elect’s second son, has also continued his role as an executive vice president at the Trump Organization, overseeing its high-end real-estate portfolio.
Like Don Jr., he has been a consistent presence alongside his father throughout his political career, frequently attending rallies and defending the president on cable news.
His wife, Lara Trump, a former Republican National Committee co-chair, has stepped down and is pursuing a career in music.
Tiffany Trump
Tiffany Trump, the president-elect’s daughter with ex-wife Marla Maples, has kept a low profile throughout her father’s presidency. The Georgetown University law graduate made occasional public appearances, but has largely avoided political involvement.
The 31-year-old is expecting a baby and reportedly plans to distance herself from politics.
Barron Trump
Barron Trump, the president-elect’s youngest child, has become increasingly involved in politics. He served as an unofficial advisor to his father, helping him navigate how to appeal to Gen Z.
In an August interview, the president-elect revealed that Barron had urged him to appear on a popular YouTuber’s channel. The 18-year-old, who is 6 feet 7 inches tall and studying at New York University, is gradually making his mark on the political landscape.
In-Laws
Jared Kushner, the president-elect’s son-in-law, was a senior White House advisor during his father’s first term. While he is not expected to return to the administration, he has reportedly agreed to serve as an unofficial advisor to the president on Middle Eastern affairs.
His father, Charles Kushner, a pardoned felon, and Massad Boulos, Tiffany’s father-in-law, have been appointed to formal roles as ambassador to France and Middle East advisor respectively.
Conclusion
The Trump family will undoubtedly play a role in the president’s second term, but in varying capacities. Some family members will continue to serve as unofficial advisors, while others will take a step back or pursue different paths. The future of the Trump family in the White House remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – they will be closely watched.
FAQs
Q: Will Melania Trump return to her first lady duties in the president’s second term?
A: Yes, Melania plans to return to the White House and continue fulfilling her traditional first lady duties.
Q: What role will Don Jr. play in the new administration?
A: Don Jr. has decided against taking on an official role, instead choosing to continue his work at the Trump Organization.
Q: Will Ivanka Trump return to politics?
A: Ivanka has stated she will not rejoin the administration, citing the potential impact on her children.
Q: How involved will the Trump family be in politics moving forward?
A: Some family members, like Don Jr. and Eric, will continue to play unofficial advisory roles, while others, like Ivanka and Tiffany, have announced their desire to distance themselves from politics.