The corridors of power in the White House have long been a battleground for influence, but behind the scenes, a quieter yet no less fierce struggle unfolded between two powerful women: former First Lady Melania Trump and her stepdaughter, Ivanka Trump. A new book by White House reporter Katie Rogers unveils the gripping tale of their behind-the-scenes clashes, shedding light on their rivalry and the lengths they went to assert their influence.
1. Melania’s Absence and Ivanka’s Ambition: Melania Trump’s decision to remain in New York during her husband’s presidency to ensure Barron’s schooling created a power vacuum in the East Wing, which Ivanka Trump eagerly sought to fill. Rogers’ book reveals how Ivanka eyed Melania’s office space for a makeover, sparking tensions between the two women.
2. The Battle for Influence: Melania, a former model with a strong sense of independence, clashed with Ivanka over the involvement of Trump’s other children in White House affairs. Despite Melania’s reservations, Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, secured influential roles within the administration, intensifying the power struggle.
3. The Jacket Heard ‘Round the World: Melania’s infamous jacket bearing the words “I really don’t care. Do U?” caused a media frenzy, with speculations rife about its intended message. Rogers’ book unveils the truth behind the jacket, revealing Melania’s frustration and defiance in the face of criticism, particularly aimed at Ivanka.
4. Behind Closed Doors: Despite their public personas, Melania and Ivanka’s relationship behind closed doors was fraught with tension. Rarely photographed together and with minimal interaction within the White House, their rivalry simmered beneath the surface, shaping their respective roles and actions.
5. A Quiet Truce: With Trump’s exit from the Oval Office, Melania and Ivanka’s relationship appears to have thawed. The former first daughter’s gesture of condolences following Melania’s mother’s passing hints at a newfound understanding between the two women, marking the end of their tumultuous White House rivalry
