Melania Trump Joins President's 'YMCA' Dance Routine at Fort Bragg Military Event
In a surprising turn of events, First Lady Melania Trump participated in President Donald Trump's now-famous "YMCA" dance routine during a visit to Fort Bragg, despite having previously expressed strong disapproval of his dance moves. This marked a notable shift from her earlier stance, where she had dismissed the performance as "unpresidential."
A Month After Criticism, First Lady Dances Alongside President
The moment unfolded as the president and first lady addressed families of military members at one of the world's most populous military installations. After concluding his remarks, the iconic Village People anthem "YMCA" began playing through the speakers, prompting President Trump to launch into his signature side-to-side sway with arms raised high.
Initially, Melania Trump appeared reluctant, watching her husband with what observers described as a clenched jaw and minimal enthusiasm. However, within seconds, she raised her own arms and attempted to mirror his movements, though with noticeably different energy and style.
Contrasting Dance Styles Reveal Different Approaches
The presidential couple displayed distinct dancing techniques:
- President Trump performed with broad smiles and confident, elevated hand gestures
- Melania Trump moved her arms more cautiously, as if lifting something heavy
- The first lady's participation appeared more measured compared to her husband's enthusiastic display
This public dancing collaboration comes just one month after President Trump revealed at a January event that his wife "hates when I do this" and considers the dance "so unpresidential." At that time, he quoted her directly, saying "she's a very classy person" who disapproves of his dance routines despite public demand for them.
Military Visit Includes Economic Commentary and Troop Tribute
The Fort Bragg appearance served multiple purposes beyond the unexpected dance moment. Before departing the White House, President Trump addressed recent economic figures showing inflation had dropped to nearly a five-year low, with apartment rental price increases easing and gas prices falling.
"The numbers were surprising, except to me they weren't surprising," Trump told reporters. "We have very modest inflation, which is what you want to have."
The visit also included a tribute to U.S. troops who had apprehended former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, with President Trump performing the "YMCA" routine after delivering those remarks as well.
Rare Public Dancing Collaboration Between the Trumps
This Fort Bragg appearance marked only the second time in recent months that the Trumps have been seen dancing together publicly. The previous instance occurred during July's Independence Day celebrations, when supporters in the crowd shouted "third term" as the couple moved to music.
The contrast between Melania Trump's previous criticism and her eventual participation at Fort Bragg highlights the evolving dynamic of their public appearances together. Despite her initial reservations about what she deemed inappropriate presidential behavior, the first lady ultimately joined in the moment as "YMCA" echoed across the military base, creating a memorable visual for attendees and media alike.
