Featured Image Credit: Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images
Topics: Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Politics, US News
Lucy Devine
Topics: Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Politics, US News
Warning: This article contains discussion of sexual harassment such as revenge porn which some readers may find distressing.
Melania Trump has spoken out publicly for the first time since Donald Trump became president.
The first lady has been noticeably absent since the inauguration celebrations took place a few weeks ago.
In fact, Melania appeared for the first time in weeks at the Governors Ball - hosted at the White House - just last week.
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Prior to this, she was last seen with Trump while visiting North Carolina and California towards the end of January.
Making her first solo public appearance since Trump was sworn in, the first lady spoke out this week as she urged lawmakers to vote for a bill that would make revenge porn a federal crime.
"It's heartbreaking to witness young teens, especially girls, grappling with the overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content, like deepfakes," said Melania.
“This legislation is essential for addressing the growing concerns related to online safety, protecting the individual rights and promoting a healthier digital environment.
“I must admit, however, I expected to see more Democrats leaders with us here today to address this serious issue. Surely, as adults, we can prioritise America’s children ahead of partisan politics."
The Take It Down bill would make it a crime to post the images without consent and would require companies to remove them within 48 hours.
“This toxic environment can be severely damaging. We must prioritize their well-being by equipping them with the support and tools necessary to navigate this hostile digital landscape,” Melania added.
“Every young person deserves a safe online space to express themself freely, without the looming threat of exploitation or harm."
Prior to Melania's appearance, fans had been wondering what the first lady had been up to.
"Does anyone know where Melania is now? She was right by his side & now she's gone. I miss her being here!", one person wrote.
And another said: "Where is Melania? It’s been quite some time since she’s been in public."
According to a source speaking to People, Melania 'stepping back' shouldn't be a surprise to the public.
"She will never be a traditional first lady. That isn’t who she is," said the source.
"[She] her own ideas on what she wants to do."
Meanwhile, a second source claimed that Melania has been busy working on her upcoming documentary with Amazon, adding: "Melania has been busy shooting her documentary and that has taken place in several locations, including the White House."
Earlier this year, it was reported that she'd bagged a documentary deal with Amazon which will tell her life story - from her childhood in Slovenia, her modelling career, and her marriage to Trump.
Having being filmed in 2024 and due to be released in the second half of 2025, Melania will be an executive producer alongside Fernando Sulichin of New Element Media and Brett Ratner of RatPac Entertainment, who will be the director.
"Prime Video will be sharing more details on the project as filming progresses and release plans are finalised," an Amazon spokesperson said in a statement.
"We are excited to share this truly unique story with our millions of customers around the world."
If you have been a victim of revenge porn, you can call the Revenge Porn Helpline in the UK at 0345 6000 459, open Monday to Friday from 10 am till 4pm, or email them at [email protected].