A recent video of former First Lady Melania Trump has ignited a fresh wave of online discussion about her public persona and her approach to the ceremonial duties of her role. The clip, which shows her reading a Christmas story to young patients at a hospital, has drawn widespread criticism for what many perceive as a lack of warmth and engagement.
The Viral Hospital Visit That Sparked Controversy
On Friday, adhering to a long-standing tradition, Melania Trump visited the Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C. During the visit, she spent time with young patients and their families, offering support. She read the book 'How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?' to a small group that included an 11-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl. The event, however, took an unexpected turn online when a clip from the visit began circulating widely on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
The video shows the former First Lady seated in a large red chair before a tall Christmas tree. Critics were quick to point out her expressionless face and a tone that seemed disinterested. Many netizens argued that she appeared to treat the reading as a mandatory chore of her former position, rather than a genuine moment of connection with children battling serious illnesses.
Internet Reacts: Mockery and Disappointment
The online reaction was swift and largely negative. A significant number of users expressed disappointment, mocking the perceived lack of authentic affection. One user shared a picture of the little girl sitting beside Trump, who also looked disinterested, with the caption, "Same, Princess. Same."
Another sarcastically commented, "Boy you can just feel the authentic affection these kids have for our First Lady." Others made more pointed remarks, with one writing, "They're probably scared she's going to shove them in the oven like Hansel and Gretel."
Observers also noted her technique, with one person pointing out, "She doesn't even understand how to read a book to children... You show the illustrations to the children? But she is looking at them to understand the story. Bizarre." The moment was succinctly dubbed "Cringemas" by another commenter.
A Contrast with Tradition and Predecessors
The viral moment invited inevitable comparisons with how other First Ladies, and indeed the role itself, is traditionally performed. The article contrasts Melania's approach with that of current First Lady Dr. Jill Biden's visit to the same hospital in 2024.
During that visit, President Joe Biden was seen holding hands with a patient, while Jill Biden engaged actively with the children during the reading. She showed them the book's illustrations and interacted with them throughout. President Biden was also seen playing with a child, even placing them on his lap. This interactive style is cited as the traditional way such readings are conducted.
In contrast, Melania Trump was seen holding the book towards herself, seemingly expecting the children to be captivated by her narration alone. She did speak to the children after finishing the story, conveying that her husband, former President Donald Trump, "is sending you love and best wishes as well."
This episode has led media and public observers to once again question Melania Trump's tenure as First Lady. As the second woman to serve in the role twice, she remains an enigmatic figure. Critics argue that, unlike her immediate predecessors Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, she has not made a heartfelt, impactful effort to forge a deep connection with the American people through her platform.
