As Donald Trump prepares for a second term, his family is expected to play less formal roles in White House affairs compared to his first tenure. However, some members will remain critical to his political operations as unofficial advisors. Here’s a breakdown of their expected roles:
Melania Trump
Melania, who married Trump in 2005, will return as First Lady and make the White House her primary residence. This marks a change from Trump’s first term when she delayed moving to Washington to allow their son, Barron, to complete his school year in New York.
As First Lady, Melania plans to focus on traditional responsibilities, including hosting state dinners and advancing her personal causes, such as her campaign against online bullying. Known for her independent streak, she rarely accompanied Trump to rallies and once sparked controversy with a jacket bearing the slogan, “I really don’t care, do you?”
Donald Trump Jr.
Trump’s eldest son, Donald Jr., remains a favorite among the MAGA base. His influential podcast, Triggered, keeps him connected to the movement. While he is reportedly opting out of an official White House role to continue as Executive Vice President of the Trump Organization, his presence as an unofficial advisor is expected. Despite reports of his split from Kimberly Guilfoyle, she will remain in the Trump circle as U.S. Ambassador to Greece.
Ivanka Trump
Ivanka Trump, Trump’s eldest daughter, has largely stepped away from politics since leaving her role as a senior White House advisor during his first term. She recently stated her decision to prioritize her family over a return to public service, affirming her withdrawal from politics when Trump launched his 2024 campaign.
Eric Trump
Eric Trump, another Executive Vice President of the Trump Organization, played a vital advisory role in his father’s first term. He is expected to maintain both his corporate and political engagements. His wife, Lara Trump, who previously served as co-chair of the Republican National Committee, has shifted her focus to a budding music career.
Tiffany Trump
Tiffany, Trump’s daughter from his marriage to Marla Maples, maintained a low profile during her father’s first term. Now 31, she has stepped away from politics and is reportedly focusing on family life as she prepares to welcome her first child.
Barron Trump
At 18, Barron Trump has stepped into the political arena as an unofficial advisor to his father, particularly on strategies to connect with Gen Z voters. Known for his height of 6’7” and his studies at New York University, Barron has shown increasing interest in his father’s campaigns.
Jared Kushner and Other In-Laws
Jared Kushner, Ivanka’s husband and a key player in Trump’s first term, is not expected to take on an official role this time. However, reports suggest he will remain an informal advisor on Middle Eastern affairs. Meanwhile, Charles Kushner, Jared’s father, and Massad Boulos, Tiffany’s father-in-law, are expected to assume formal roles as U.S. ambassadors to France and Middle East advisors, respectively.
As Trump embarks on his second term, the family dynamics around his administration reflect a mix of continuity and change, with most members stepping back from formal roles while continuing to influence the political landscape behind the scenes.
