The public is turning on Melania Trump. YouGov shows her popularity at just 36%. More people dislike her than like her. 43% disapprove. Only 18% feel neutral.
When Melania left the White House in 2021, her popularity was already low for a first lady at around 42%, the worst on record at that time. But her image has slid even lower by the end of 2025.
Many Americans point to how little she shows up in public today. Unlike past first ladies who led major campaigns or charity projects, Melania’s presence has been quiet since her husband returned to office. YouGov and other accounts note she often keeps to the background.
Her official White House portrait drew extra attention. In the photo, she wears a black pantsuit and stands in a boardroom-like setting.
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Some observers said the image looked more like a business executive than a first lady. This, they said, fits how her role has felt: formal, distant, and not rooted in sustained public work.
In 2025, the East Wing of the White House, once home to the first lady’s office, was torn down to make way for a massive new ballroom. Former first ladies used that space to plan and run long-term initiatives. Melania reportedly raised concerns about the demolition, but her voice did not stop it.
She also signed a $40 million deal for a documentary about her life, set to debut in January. The project focuses on her pre‑White House years and the days leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration.
There are exceptions. Second Lady Usha Vance has publicly praised Melania for speaking about child safety and welfare, calling her a “role model” and “trailblazer.” Vance said that “every time that she uses her voice… it’s a good thing.”
President Trump also recently mentioned a new initiative Melania plans to lead in 2026, saying it will “have something to do with the kids.” This suggests she aims to build on her BE BEST child welfare messaging after her time in the White House.
But many critics say this has all come too late. Over the last year, she appeared in public only occasionally, and many of her appearances felt like one‑off photo ops rather than sustained work.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
