Donald Trump broke new ground as the first sitting president to make an appearance at the Super Bowl, just this past Sunday. The 47th President was accompanied by a sizable entourage, featuring a number of family members. Yet, there was one notable absence—the First Lady, Melania Trump. Her lack of presence in New Orleans, where the Philadelphia Eagles triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs, has everyone guessing. The buzz on social media has been thoroughly divided over the reasons for her absence.

Meanwhile, insiders have shed some light on Melania Trump’s outlook as First Lady, which seems to set her apart from those who came before her.

Melania’s reintroduction to the White House scene has prompted countless debates and varied opinions. After exiting Washington in 2021 post her husband’s initial presidency, Melania has made a comeback four years later.

Unlike the fanfare surrounding her at first, the Slovenian former model has enjoyed a quieter life during these intervals. Yet, she’s in the spotlight once more, as rumors swirl about her marriage to Donald and whispered tensions between the pair persist.

Donald and Melania marked their two decades together not too long ago, having been wed in a glittering ceremony at Bethesda-By-the-Sea on January 22, 2005. Returning to the White House seems like a fitting gift as they celebrate a marriage milestone.

During Inauguration Day, the couple shared poignant moments. Despite her familiarity with public occasions, behavioral scientist Abbie Maroño tells Newsweek that underlying tensions were palpable. According to Maroño, Melania’s choice of a wide-brimmed hat created a barrier during a public kiss attempt by President Trump, leading to an awkward air kiss. Melania seemed to shield herself from attention, with limited eye contact and a lack of affectionate gestures indicating possible discomfort.

Melania Trump’s Unique Role

When it came time for the inaugural ball, Melania and Donald partook in the tradition of the first dance. Initially, their demeanor seemed tense, but the couple relaxed as Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha, and members of the military graced the stage, resulting in a more congenial atmosphere with the First Lady smiling throughout the dance.

Although Melania and Donald have stood as a public power couple for many years, it’s not to say they never disagree. There have been reports of disputes, including the well-discussed jacket incident in their first term in Washington. In her memoir, Melania even revealed her staunch defense of abortion rights, a stance differing from her husband’s views.

Melania is determined to project her own identity, wanting the world to recognize her independence beyond just being the President’s wife. Speaking with Fox, she shared her views on being her own person and giving advice to Donald.

“Sure, people might just see me as the President’s wife, but I stand independently, with my own opinions, my own ‘yes’ and ‘no,’” Melania expressed.

“While sometimes my views don’t match what my husband believes or acts upon, that’s okay. I offer him my advice, and sometimes he listens, but sometimes he doesn’t.”

Balancing Act: Melania’s Take

Reflecting on her initial First Lady experience, Melania admitted feeling misunderstood. “It felt like I didn’t have much support and maybe I wasn’t accepted or understood as I might be now,” she shared.

Disagreements between Donald and Melania are not particularly groundbreaking, mirroring the experiences of any married duo. They remain committed after 20 years together. Early in February, Melania’s photographer, Régine Mahaux, divulged new information about her current life in an interview.

Mahaux noted, “She embodies both a strong and soft presence—a delicate balancing act that complements her husband.” He expressed admiration for her resilience, pondering how she finds “the courage to continue.”

“They’ve endured so much, but the commitment and mutual love endure,” he continued. “While Donald is in the limelight, Melania stays grounded. She’s a wonderful number two, prioritizing family happiness above all.”

During her husband’s first term, Melania embraced her role as First Lady, despite skepticism from some. Today, she’s established herself more confidently.

Transformations: A New Era for Melania

Yet, this time will differ. Mahaux points out that her newfound experiences and personal growth shape these changes.

“Melania has a more liberated manner of making statements now,” Mahaux said. “She’s evolved over the years, staying true to herself. The energy feels refreshed with new faces President Trump surrounds himself with.”

This second White House stint for the Trumps brings notable changes, especially for Melania, who won’t live in Washington full-time. Though grand in title, Melania prioritizes her son, Barron Trump, who is currently studying at Stern Business School. Consequently, Washington will take a backseat.

While Melania articulates her aspirations for her second First Lady term, a source told People Magazine she won’t let the White House role dictate her life entirely.

“Her mission revolves around children’s wellbeing,” the New York and Palm Beach source relayed to People. “Her contributions will align with her interest and available time.”

Melania’s Political Image

The insider also discussed Melania’s nuanced approach to her husband’s political persuasions, different from Donald’s first two wives.

“Melania embodies Ivana’s intelligence,” the source said, “yet maintains tradition and discretion akin to Marla’s style.”

The People Magazine source stated that politics isn’t Melania Trump’s realm, her social circle limited to close family and a few friends. Despite Donald being attentive to how she’s perceived politically, Melania is nonchalant about it.

“Understanding Melania comes from what she opts not to do or say,” the source explained. “Reserved in crowds doesn’t equal disinterest; her mind is tuned to her life’s purpose. Trump does his thing, and she hers. Even if her advice isn’t always heeded by Donald, it occasionally does influence him.”

Melania had been scarcely seen before the final campaigning months of Donald Trump’s stint last year. While she joined Donald on trips, such as a recent Los Angeles visit, her absence during the Super Bowl was conspicuous.

Theories Abound on Social Media

As the first sitting president to grace the Super Bowl, Donald’s cameo at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans drew family members like son Eric Trump and daughter Ivanka Trump, among others.

However, social media buzzed with curiosity after Melania gave the event a miss. Some took to social media platform X to question her absence, brewing speculation and humor alike.

“Where’s Melania? Has she settled into the White House, or perhaps she’s contemplating a split?” one user jested, according to the Irish Star.

Another remarked, “Melania’s staying home? I can’t blame her, to be honest.”

A third speculated, “Both Melania and Barron are missing from Trump’s side during the Super Bowl. What a ‘family man’! Clearly, neither lives at the White House or Mar-a-Lago”

The reasons behind Melania Trump—or Barron for that matter—not joining Donald at the Super Bowl remain unclear. Prior to the game, Donald did extend a message mentioning Melania. “My wife joins me in wishing everyone a great Super Bowl Sunday,” his statement read.

What do you think kept Melania Trump from the Super Bowl? Feel free to discuss with your friends and family—sharing your thoughts is always welcome.