Challenges in the Life of Melania Trump in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Melania Trump faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Melania Trump is a Slovenian-American former model who served as First Lady of the United States during Donald Trump's presidency from 2017 to 2021, and again from 2025 onwards. She holds the distinction of being the first naturalized citizen to assume the role of First Lady. She is also the second foreign-born First Lady and the second Roman Catholic First Lady. Notably, she is also the second First Lady to serve two non-consecutive terms.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2016: Disapproval rating greater than approval rating

During the 2016 presidential election, Melania Trump became the only candidate's spouse since 1988 to have a disapproval rating greater than her approval rating.

April 2018: Diagnosis with Kidney Disease

In April 2018, Melania Trump learned that she was afflicted with kidney disease, and she informed her parents, husband, and sister. She later began treatment in May.

2018: Challenges as First Lady

In 2018, Melania faced challenges that included allegations of extramarital affairs by her husband, surgery for kidney disease, and scrutiny during a tour of Africa. Despite these challenges, she prioritized children's issues, launching the Be Best campaign.

December 2020: Ranked as the worst first lady

In December 2020, the Siena College Research Institute released a study in which Melania Trump was ranked as the worst of 40 assessed American first ladies. Her "Be Best" initiative was also ranked the least-effective.