Date: January 18, 2025
Donald Trump’s family will likely be less formally involved in White House business in his second term compared to the first, but some will remain key to his political operation as unofficial advisors.
Melania Trump
Melania Trump, who met Trump at a party in 1998 and married him in 2005, returns as first lady to the White House, planning to make it her primary residence. This is a change from Trump’s first term, when she did not live in the White House for several months so their son Barron, then 10, could finish school in New York.
Donald Trump Jr.
Trump’s eldest son, Don Jr., a favorite of the MAGA movement, has significant sway with the president-elect’s base. His “Triggered” podcast is influential, and he reportedly helped select JD Vance as vice president. However, Don Jr. is expected to forgo an official White House role and continue working as an executive vice president at the Trump Organization.
Ivanka Trump
Ivanka Trump, who worked as a senior advisor to her father during his first term, has largely stepped away from politics and will not return to serve in the White House. She has expressed that the personal cost of public service is not something she wants her children to bear.
Eric Trump
Trump’s second son, Eric, like his older brother Don Jr., worked as an executive vice president of the Trump Organization and served as an unofficial advisor during his father’s political career. He is expected to continue in both roles.
Tiffany Trump
Tiffany Trump, who was largely out of the spotlight during her father’s first term, is planning to remain distanced from politics. She is reportedly expecting a child and will focus on her personal life.
Barron Trump
Barron, now 18, is beginning to chart his own political path and was an unexpected influence in his father’s 2024 campaign. He has advised on how to connect with Gen Z voters.
In-laws
Jared Kushner, Ivanka’s husband, was a senior advisor during Trump’s first term but is not expected to return to the administration. However, he will serve as an unofficial advisor on Middle Eastern affairs. His father, Charles Kushner, and Tiffany’s father-in-law, Massad Boulos, will take on formal roles as ambassadors to France and as Middle East advisors, respectively.
