Melania Trump and Ivanka Trump made a rare joint appearance at the Republican National Convention on Thursday, showing support for former President Donald Trump as he pursues another presidential bid. Unlike Trump’s previous campaigns, both women have largely remained off the campaign trail this year and did not deliver any speeches.
Melania Trump’s presence at the convention aimed to showcase unity within the Republican Party following a recent assassination attempt on Trump’s life. Melania issued a statement after the attack advocating for Americans to rise above hate and violence.
While Melania Trump took a backseat this year, other speakers at the convention shared anecdotes to humanize Trump, including warm interactions with their children. Trump’s granddaughter, Kai Trump, described him as a “normal grandfather.”
After Trump formally accepted the GOP nomination, his family, excluding Melania, joined him in the arena. Melania arrived later, greeted the crowd, and sat next to vice presidential nominee JD Vance. During Trump’s speech, he thanked Melania for her call for unity and described it as a beautiful gesture.
Melania later surprised Trump on stage, and the family celebrated with balloons falling from the ceiling. Melania stood by Trump’s side, displaying quiet affection as the family lingered on stage. Trump’s other children and their partners also spoke at the convention, with the exception of Barron Trump, who did not make an appearance.
Melania Trump has skipped significant moments of her husband’s campaign in the past, including rallies and legal proceedings. Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, who held senior positions in the White House, did not attend Trump’s 2022 announcement of another presidential campaign, with Ivanka stating her support for her father while stepping back from politics.
