Off The Record

A Small Detail In Trump’s Christmas Photo Draws Attention

Using his Truth Social platform, President-elect Donald Trump sent a joyous message to Americans this holiday season, wishing them a “Merry Christmas” and expressing his hopes for a peaceful year to come.

Along with his sincere message, Trump posted a sentimental holiday picture, a six-year-old official Christmas portrait of himself and former First Lady Melania Trump from 2018.

In addition to the post, Trump shared a pre-recorded video in which he and Melania commended the value of Christianity and thanked the Americans who serve and defend the nation.

However, Melania’s conspicuous absence from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Christmas dinner stoked rumors about the couple’s relationship, and the old picture soon came under internet scrutiny.

The fact that the former First Lady was not spotted with Trump during the holiday celebrations was quickly brought to light on social media.

An account on X, formerly known as Twitter, called Republicans Against Trump, shared a video zooming in on Trump’s Christmas dinner table and posed a pointed question: “What do you notice in this video of Trump at the Christmas party in Mar-a-Lago?” The resounding answer from users: “No, Melania.”

The recycled Christmas photo added to the intrigue. Users on X didn’t hold back their criticism, with one commenting, “Nice try, bro. That photo is from 2018. #WheresMelania,” as they reshared the image.

The rumors have only grown more intense due to Melania’s scant appearances on the campaign trail in recent months.

She has made more frequent appearances to support her husband during previous election cycles, but this time around, her absence has been conspicuous.

When Fox News pressed the former First Lady about her sparse appearances during the campaign, she offered a measured response.

Referring to a rare public event in New York City, Melania said, “It was an incredible place. I love New York City, and I thought it was important for people to hear from me on that day. The arena, Madison Square Garden, the support we have—it was about showing my support for my husband and everyone else.”

Trump is still committed to sharing his message of faith, solidarity, and optimism for the future in spite of the commotion.

Supporters have responded favorably to his holiday wishes, but there are still unanswered issues about Melania’s absence, which casts the couple’s public persona in a mysterious light.

As Trump considers his possible comeback to the White House, it is evident that in the highly linked digital age of today, even a simple Christmas greeting can spark a flurry of rumors and discussion.