In a rare public appearance, Melania Trump accompanied her husband, former President Donald Trump, to a charity dinner in New York last Friday.
Paid Appearance
The event, organized by the Archdiocese of New York for Catholic and anti-abortion causes, drew attention not only because of Melania’s presence, but because she was reportedly paid to attend.
Just three weeks before the U.S. elections, Melania Trump, known for avoiding the political spotlight, surprised many by appearing at such a high-profile event. However, various reports suggest her attendance was part of a paid arrangement, raising questions about the motivations behind her presence, according to El Economista.
This isn't the first time Melania has been rumored to have accepted payment for public appearances, leading many to wonder if her participation was less about supporting her husband’s campaign or promoting her memoir, and more about financial compensation.
Supporting Abotion Rights
This latest appearance comes after Melania sparked controversy earlier in the campaign by publicly supporting abortion rights — a position that sharply contrasts with the conservative, anti-abortion stance of her husband’s Republican Party. At a previous event, she declared:
"It’s a fundamental right for women," aligning herself more with progressive voices like Kamala Harris. Additionally, she has defended her past nude modeling as a “celebration of the human form,” another stance that complicates her relationship with her husband’s base.
At the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation dinner, many were curious if Melania would attend, given the recent tensions and her rare public appearances.
In addition to enduring jokes about Donald Trump’s past infidelities, the former first lady’s attendance was heavily scrutinized, particularly because of rumors that she had been compensated for her presence.
It remains unclear if her fees will be donated to the charitable organizations hosting the event, but the speculation has certainly added a layer of intrigue to the dinner.
