Political Tribune

Donald Trump, Opinion, Politics, Social Media

Trump Appears To Grip Melania Like He’s Not Letting Go As They Step Off Air Force One

Fragile at 79

580
580 points

Recently, President Donald Trump made another careful descent from Air Force One, stepping slowly down the narrow staircase while firmly holding Melania’s hand.

The moment happened as the couple arrived in Palm Beach, Florida, for the weekend. Cameras captured Trump, 79, placing each foot with visible caution before reaching the tarmac. The first lady stayed close, their hands linked the entire way down. Afterward, they entered the presidential limousine and headed to Mar-a-Lago.

The scene may have lasted less than a minute, but in today’s political climate, small visuals often carry large meaning.

Since returning to the office, Trump has been noticeably deliberate when boarding and exiting Air Force One and Marine One. The slower pace stands in contrast to the image he has long promoted — energetic, tireless, always in motion.

Earlier this month, Trump addressed the subject directly. “I’ve got to be very careful going in,” he said. “Ever noticed how slowly I am these days? Nice and slowly—I’m not looking to set any records. You don’t want to go down. Could happen, could happen. But it can’t happen three times in one shot, OK?”

The remark appeared to reference previous public stumbles by political figures — moments Trump himself once used to question others’ fitness.

Health disclosures have added another layer.

In 2025, the White House confirmed that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition common among older adults that can cause swelling in the lower legs. He also takes aspirin regularly, which acts as a blood thinner and can lead to bruising, particularly with frequent handshaking.

Critics took aim at the moment, joking about Melania’s role in keeping Trump steady.

 

Friday’s arrival also happened to fall on Valentine’s Day. There was no official word on how the couple planned to mark the occasion. Still, the image of Trump tightly gripping Melania’s hand as he descended created its own quiet narrative.

Featured image via X screengrab

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Terry Lawson

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Terry is an editor and political writer based in Alabama. Over the last five years, he’s worked behind the scenes as a ghostwriter for a range of companies, helping shape voices and tell stories that connect. Now at Political Tribune, he writes sharp political pieces and edits with a close eye on clarity and tone. Terry’s work is driven by strong storytelling, attention to detail, and a clear sense of purpose. He’s skilled in writing, editing, and project management — and always focused on getting the message right. You can find him on X at https://x.com/TerryNotTrump.

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