Melania Trump returned to the Capitol on Tuesday to advocate for legislation aimed at combating deepfake images and revenge pornography.
A cause she has passionately embraced.
Seated beside 15-year-old Elliston Berry, a Texas teenager victimized by AI-generated deepfake content, the First Lady listened intently as President Donald Trump acknowledged her efforts during his joint address to Congress.
In his speech, the President commended Senate Majority Leader John Thune for advancing the ‘Take It Down’ bill.
Which seeks to criminalize the non-consensual sharing of intimate images both real and AI-generated. However, he couldn’t resist making the moment about himself.
“I’m going to use that bill for myself, if you don’t mind,” Trump quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.
“Nobody gets treated worse than I do online. Nobody.”
Despite the President’s characteristic diversion, Melania Trump’s advocacy emphasized the pressing need for stronger online protections.
On Monday, she met with lawmakers, urging them to back the bipartisan initiative, which has already passed the Senate.
If enacted, the legislation would mandate tech companies to remove harmful content within 48 hours, offering swift recourse to victims.
Renewed mission to protect children online
In her first solo public appearance of the new administration, Melania Trump delivered an emotional plea for urgent action against online abuse.
“It’s heartbreaking to witness young teens, especially girls, struggling with the devastating impact of deepfakes and malicious online content,” she said.
“In a world where digital interactions shape daily life, safeguarding children from harm is not just necessary—it’s imperative.”
Her push for digital safety echoes the mission of her ‘Be Best’ campaign, launched during Trump’s first term, which focused on child well-being and online protection.
The bill has gained bipartisan momentum, with Republican Senator Ted Cruz and Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar leading the effort.
House Energy and Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie confirmed that a hearing on the legislation is forthcoming.
Meanwhile, President Trump’s speech to Congress covered a broad range of policy issues, including immigration and gender identity.
He declared that the country would “no longer be woke,” vowing to dismantle diversity and inclusion programs in the federal government.
His economic policies also took center stage, with announcements on increased tariffs for China, Canada, and Mexico, alongside a temporary halt on military aid to Ukraine.
Framing his speech as a “renewal of the American dream,” Trump positioned his administration as one committed to reshaping the nation’s future.
While the President’s rhetoric dominated headlines, Melania Trump’s efforts to shield vulnerable individuals from online exploitation stood out.
