Melania Trump breaks first lady prot
Melania Trump’s Historic Signature Sparks Constitutional Debate
In an unprecedented move, First Lady Melania Trump signed a federal bill—
the Take It Down Act—alongside President Trump on May 19, 2025.
Though her signature holds no legal authority,
it marks the first time a presidential spouse has ever participated in the formal signing of legislation, sparking fierce debate over constitutional norms.
“C’mon, sign it anyway,” President Trump urged as he handed the pen to his wife.
“She deserves to sign it.” The gesture, though symbolic, has unsettled legal scholars and critics. “This represents a fundamental departure from two centuries of constitutional practice,” said Dr. Sarah Peterson of Georgetown University. “The visual and symbolic impact…raises serious questions about democratic governance.”
A First Lady’s Active Legislative Role
The Take It Down Act criminalizes the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes. Melania Trump championed the bill, personally lobbying Congress and hosting roundtables with victims. “It’s heartbreaking to witness young teens…grappling with the overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content,” she said.
Her work reflects a more engaged second-term approach, expanding on her earlier “Be Best” initiative. “Artificial intelligence and social media are the digital candy for the next generation…but unlike sugar, these new technologies can be weaponized,” she warned.
