First Lady Melania Trump promotes movie on New York Stock Exchange
First lady Melania Trump promoted her new movie at the New York Stock Exchange.
WASHINGTON — Eleven days before her husband was sworn into his second term as president, First Lady Melania Trump attended former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral in Washington, D.C., and then headed straight to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.
Since that day was the first anniversary of her mother’s death, she wanted to light a candle in her mother’s memory at the church her mother often attended.
This personal moment, which depicts how close she was to her mother, is chronicled in the documentary “Melania.” Ahead of Mother’s Day, USA TODAY asked the first lady in writing about her relationship with her mother and her bond with son Barron.
The famously reclusive first lady gave USA TODAY a behind-the-curtain glimpse into their roles as mother and daughter and agreed to answer questions in writing.
The responses described how President Trump relied on his mother to root his son in his native Slovenian culture while raising him in his adopted country. She also talked about how her own sense of style and attention to detail was influenced by her mother, a fashion designer.
Amalia Knahus, who died on January 9, 2024 at the age of 78, helped give Baron a “strong connection to his Slovenian roots” through food, language and books, she wrote to the first lady.
Amalia and her husband, Viktor Knahus, lived in the first lady’s native Slovenia, but after the birth of their only grandchild, Baron, in 2006, they began spending more time in the United States to be near Baron, according to a close aide to the first lady.
Barron, 20, now a student at New York University, has been the subject of intense public interest. But like his mother, he is very private and rarely appears at White House events. After completing his freshman year at New York University’s main campus, he transferred to the school’s Washington, D.C., campus and lives in the White House.
immigration roots
Melania Trump, wife of President Donald Trump, is the first and only naturalized American to serve as first lady. She was born in Slovenia in 1970 and became a U.S. citizen in 2006.
The first lady described the bond between mother and son as “magical” and said Baron spoke Slovenian with his grandparents from an early age.
The first lady, a former model whose outfits are endlessly analyzed on social media, said her mother, a children’s clothing designer in Sevnica, Slovenia, shaped her outlook on fashion and business. In fact, when Trump walked her first fashion runway as a children’s wear model at age 6, she wore her mother’s creations, according to her book Melania.
Below are Melania Trump’s answers to USA TODAY’s questions.
Question: How do you celebrate Mother’s Day in Slovenia?Melania Trump: Slovenia celebrated Mother’s Day on March 8, International Women’s Day. These two moments served as a beautiful reminder of the strength and love that all mothers and women bring into our lives.
A long time ago, in art class, I painted a special picture of my mother, capturing her essence on canvas. She cherished it, along with many of my other works of art, and showed me the power of love, encouragement, and tradition.What role did your mother play in raising Baron? And how did it affect him?MT: My mother was the epitome of love and warmth, and to Barron, she was a grandmother who filled every moment with joy and wisdom. Every story she read to Baron stimulated his imagination, and their bond grew stronger each time they played games. Her delicious meals were more than just food. They were celebrations of unity. Did Mr. Baron and your mother have any family rituals?MT: My mother and Baron had a distinct bond that started with my mother’s tender embrace. When Baron was young, the two often hugged each other, played Baron’s favorite games, and read books together. I often heard their laughter and personally felt their joy, knowing they were creating unforgettable memories together. Their connection was so magical. And I loved watching it. What did your parents’ support mean to you in raising Baron?MT: Their love, wisdom, and guidance built a strong foundation for Baron that nurtured his growth and potential. My parents’ dedication is priceless, and it inspires me to provide the same dedication to Barron as he follows his own path.
Even though Baron grew up in New York, did your mother do anything to help him become ingrained in Slovenian culture?MT: Of course! She made Baron feel a strong connection to his Slovenian roots by sharing books and stories from our childhood. By cooking traditional Slovenian food, his mother filled the house with delicious aromas, while also connecting Baron with his heritage.
What language did they (Baron and grandmother) speak to each other?MT: Baron and my mother shared a beautiful bond through the Slovenian language and a beautiful connection that celebrated their heritage. Having both speak the same language allowed for deep and meaningful communication. Your mother was a pattern maker and fashion designer. How has it influenced your fashion and business sense?
MT: Her passion for design and meticulous attention to detail inspired a deep appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship in me.
Her ability to combine artistry and entrepreneurship taught me that fashion is more than just style. It’s about building connections and empowering others through creativity.Do you have any advice for young mothers who are currently raising children?MT: Young mothers, shower your children with love and support and always communicate openly. See them not just as an extension of yourself, but as unique individuals in their own right. Encourage children to respect their decisions to say yes and no, explore their passions, and respect their choices.
Establish a foundation of freedom where they can carve their own path in life, guiding them with wisdom.
Remember, they are here to live their lives, and your nurturing spirit will help them shine.
Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is USA TODAY’s White House correspondent. You can follow her at X @SwapnaVenugopal..
