The First Lady opened up about her 18-year-old son’s living arrangements following Donald Trump’s inauguration
Melania Trump Reveals Living Arrangements for Herself and Son Barron as Donald Trump Assumes the Presidency Once Again
As Donald Trump officially begins his second term as the 47th President of the United States, Melania Trump has shared insight into how her family’s living arrangements will look over the next four years. In a recent interview with Fox News on January 13, the former First Lady, now returning to her role, discussed her plans for balancing life between three key locations: Washington, D.C., New York City, and Palm Beach, Florida.
While Donald Trump settles back into the White House, Melania explained that she and her 18-year-old son, Barron, will split their time between these three locations. However, she confirmed that the White House will serve as her primary residence during her husband’s presidency.
Balancing Multiple Homes
When asked where she would spend most of her time, Melania outlined her priorities: “I will be in the White House. And when I need to be in New York, I will be in New York. When I need to be in Palm Beach, I will be in Palm Beach. My first priority is to be a mom, to be a First Lady, to be a wife.”
Melania’s statement highlights her continued commitment to her family, even as she navigates her duties as First Lady for a second time. As a former resident of the White House during her husband’s first administration (2017-2021), she is no stranger to the demands and responsibilities of the role. However, her focus remains on providing stability for her son Barron, now a young adult.
Barron’s Living Arrangements
Barron Trump, who turned 18 last year, recently began his first year at New York University’s Stern School of Business. According to Melania, he has chosen to reside at Trump Tower, the family’s residence in Midtown Manhattan, while attending college. However, Melania emphasized that Barron will have a room at the White House to ensure he can visit whenever he wishes.
“Whatever he would like to do,” Melania said during the interview. “I feel as children, we have them till they are 18, 19 years old. We teach them, we guide them, and then we give them the wings to fly.”
Melania also expressed her respect for Barron’s independence, adding, “I always respect Barron’s yes and no, and what he likes to do, where he would like to be.”
A source close to the family previously told People magazine that Melania is fully supporting Barron as he adjusts to college life but confirmed that living in a dorm is not in his immediate plans. “She will do everything she can to make sure Barron does well in school and is socially and mentally adjusted to his life as a college student,” the source explained. “Living in a dorm in a college town isn’t in the stars for him at this point.”
Transitioning Back to the White House
Melania also spoke about her transition back into the White House, describing the process as “incredible” but also different from her first move in 2017. “This time is very different because we already know where we are going. And we have all of the plans from before, so we don’t need to go back in,” she said.
She acknowledged the logistical challenges involved in the move but noted that her team has been working closely with White House staff to ensure a smooth transition. “It’s incredible what you need to do when in that situation,” she added. “But we have everything we need.”
Separate Rooms in the White House
Reports have also surfaced regarding Melania and Donald Trump’s sleeping arrangements in the White House. According to journalist Michael Wolff’s 2018 book Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, the couple were the first since John and Jackie Kennedy to occupy separate bedrooms in the residence. Wolff wrote, “She is a loner. He is a loner. They’re perfectly happy to be separated.”
This arrangement reportedly continues during Trump’s second term, reflecting their individual preferences and lifestyle choices.
Melania’s Focus as First Lady
While Melania is preparing to re-establish her office and resume her role as First Lady, she made it clear that her primary focus remains on her family, particularly her role as a mother to Barron. Her emphasis on balancing family life with her public responsibilities reflects her approach to her position during Trump’s first term, where she championed initiatives focused on child welfare and anti-bullying.
As the Trump family navigates life in the spotlight once again, Melania’s comments shed light on the delicate balance she maintains between her personal life and public duties. Her plans to divide time between Washington, New York, and Florida highlight her commitment to both her responsibilities as First Lady and her role as a mother and wife.
A Historic Presidency
Donald Trump’s second term also carries historical significance, as he becomes the first person convicted of a felony to assume the presidency. Despite this unprecedented circumstance, Melania has expressed confidence in her husband’s leadership. Speaking to Fox News, she praised his victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the November 2024 election, calling the result “incredible.”
As the Trump family settles into their new routines, Melania’s statements offer a glimpse into how she plans to navigate her second stint as First Lady while keeping her family at the center of her priorities. Whether at the White House, Trump Tower, or Mar-a-Lago, Melania remains steadfast in her commitment to supporting her husband and ensuring her son’s well-being.
Conclusion
With Donald Trump back in the White House, Melania Trump’s interview provides valuable insight into how the First Family is managing the unique challenges and opportunities of this new chapter. From her role as a mother to her duties as First Lady, Melania’s focus on balancing personal and public life will undoubtedly shape her legacy during her husband’s second term. As the nation watches, the Trump family’s living arrangements and decisions will continue to capture attention in the years to come.
