Melania Trump reveals she’s ready with plans for WH now while admitting ‘first time was challenging’
WASHINGTON, DC: Melania Trump shared her comprehensive plans for her second tenure as first lady in an exclusive interview with Ainsley Earhardt on 'Fox & Friends'.
After a quieter first term, during which she focused on raising her son Barron Trump, Melania plans to take on a much more active and visible role this time.
Donald Trump's inauguration is scheduled for Monday, January 20.
Melania Trump says she knows 'the process'
Emphasizing her preparedness for this new chapter, Melania Trump said, "I know where I will be going. I know the rooms where we will be living. I know the process."
Melania also discussed her son Barron, now an 18-year-old freshman at New York University.
She described her parenting philosophy, allowing him independence while continuing to offer guidance.
"He will come and visit, yes," she confirmed, adding, "I feel that children, we guide them and then give them wings to fly."
While Barron will visit the White House, he will remain primarily focused on his studies in New York.
Melania Trump's $40M documentary
A centerpiece of Melania Trump’s plans is her forthcoming $40 million documentary, which will provide an intimate look into her life and her return to the White House.
Inspired by the success of her memoir, 'Melania', the documentary was her idea and will be produced in partnership with Amazon.
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"My life is incredible. It’s incredibly busy," she remarked.
The documentary will showcase her day-to-day responsibilities, including setting up her team, transitioning to the White House, and making the residence feel like home.
Slated for a theatrical release this fall, the documentary will later be available on Amazon’s streaming platform.
Melania Trump on expanding Be Best campaign
Melania Trump’s signature Be Best campaign, focusing on children’s well-being, social media awareness, and mental health, will also see significant expansion.
“I will continue with Be Best and also I will expand Be Best,” she said.
Reflecting on her first term, she noted limited support from media and businesses but expressed optimism for greater collaboration this time.
"Imagine what we could do if they rallied behind me," she said.
Melania also plans to engage with the business community to enhance the campaign’s reach and effectiveness.
She addressed speculation about splitting her time between New York, Palm Beach, and Washington, DC, stating she would prioritize her duties as first lady while fulfilling her commitments as a mother and wife.
"My first priority is to be a mom, a first lady, and a wife. Once we are in on January 20, you serve the country," she asserted.
Melania Trump is prepared for the transition
Having already selected furniture and finalizing arrangements for the family quarters, Melania Trump highlighted a smoother transition this time around.
"The first time was challenging," she admitted, noting a lack of information during their initial move in 2017.
"This time, I have everything. I have the plans," she revealed.
“I already packed. I already selected the, you know, the furniture that needs to go in. So it’s, it’s very different, a transition, this time, second time around,” she said, per Los Angeles Times.
The White House staff is currently preparing for the transition, which will be completed in just five hours on Inauguration Day.
A streamlined East Wing staff
Incoming first lady Melania Trump plans to hire a lean and efficient East Wing team.
"I don’t want to hire too many people and spend too much taxpayer money," she explained.
Her focus is on recruiting talented individuals who align with her vision and values.
Melania emphasized her individuality, stating, "I feel I was always me the first time as well. I’m standing on my own two feet."
"I have my own thoughts. I have my own yes and no. I don’t always agree with what my husband is saying or doing, and that’s okay," she added.
