Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, a former senior advisor to Melania Trump, has publicly criticized Donald and Melania Trump, claiming they viewed the presidency not as a public service but as "the greatest business opportunity of a lifetime." In a series of statements on X, formerly known as Twitter, Wolkoff articulated her concerns about the Trumps' motivations during their time in the White House, suggesting that their actions were driven by self-interest rather than the welfare of the American people.
"Neither Donald nor Melania Trump wielded their power for good... they used it to fulfill their self-interests," Wolkoff stated, expressing alarm at how many Americans have been misled by Trump's promises to 'fix' America. Her comments underscore a deep-seated belief that the Trump administration's priorities were misaligned with the country's needs.
Wolkoff also highlighted the dangerous precedent set by Donald Trump, particularly his role in inciting the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Describing the event as an "assault on human life and our great democracy," she condemned the former president and the first lady for their apparent disregard for democratic principles and human well-being, accusing them of fostering an environment filled with "mirrors and poisonous lies."
The public's reaction to Wolkoff's statements was mixed, with many expressing agreement and frustration with the Trump administration, while others criticized her for her past association with the Trumps. In response to such criticisms, Wolkoff defended her decision to work without a salary for Melania in the White House, claiming her intentions were to respect the office of the First Lady and launch a children's initiative, which she feels was ultimately undermined by the administration's priorities.
In addition to Wolkoff's revelations, a new book by author Kate Rogers titled "American Woman: The Transformation of the Modern First Lady, from Hillary Clinton to Jill Biden," sheds light on the internal dynamics between Donald and Melania Trump during their time in office. The book details instances of conflict between the couple, highlighting Melania's attempts to assert her independence and Donald's efforts to quash it. From disagreements over White House decor to Melania's preference for CNN over Fox News, the book portrays a first lady striving to carve out her own path amidst the tumultuous Trump presidency.
Rogers also notes Melania's efforts to differentiate her public messaging from her husband's, particularly in the wake of the Charlottesville rally in 2017. Despite her relatively subdued presence in the administration, Melania's tweets calling for non-violence and open communication stood in stark contrast to her husband's more divisive rhetoric.
As these new insights come to light, they paint a complex picture of the Trump administration, marked by internal strife, personal ambition, and a contentious relationship with the principles of democratic governance. Wolkoff's outspoken critique and Rogers' detailed account offer a glimpse into the challenges and controversies that defined the Trump White House, raising questions about the motivations and legacy of the 45th president and his first lady.