As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House following his inauguration on Monday, his family’s involvement in his administration is expected to be more limited than during his first term. While some will take on unofficial advisory roles, others are stepping back from politics.
Here’s a closer look at how the former president’s wife, children, and other relatives are set to feature in his new administration:
Melania Trump
Returning as first lady, Melania Trump plans to make the White House her primary residence, a shift from Trump’s first term, when she delayed moving in for several months to allow their son Barron to finish school in New York.
As first lady, Melania intends to continue fulfilling traditional duties, including hosting state dinners and supporting charitable causes. Known for her independent approach, she is unlikely to accompany her husband frequently to public events.
Donald Trump Jr.
Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., remains a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, leveraging his popular “Triggered” podcast to connect with the Republican base.
While he will forgo an official White House role to focus on his position as Executive Vice President of the Trump Organization, Trump Jr. is expected to wield significant influence as an unofficial advisor.
Although reports indicate he and former Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle have ended their engagement, Guilfoyle is set to take on a formal role as the U.S. ambassador to Greece.
Ivanka Trump
The former first daughter, Ivanka Trump, has largely withdrawn from politics since serving as a senior advisor during her father’s first term.
Now a mother of three, Ivanka has publicly stated her decision not to rejoin the administration, citing the personal toll it would take on her family. She stepped out of public life following Trump’s 2024 campaign launch.
Eric Trump
Like his older brother, Eric Trump, 41, will remain focused on his executive role at the Trump Organization while continuing to support his father as an unofficial advisor and frequent surrogate at rallies.
His wife, Lara Trump, has shifted her focus to a burgeoning music career after stepping down from her Republican National Committee co-chair role last year.
Tiffany Trump
The president’s youngest daughter from his marriage to Marla Maples, Tiffany Trump, has remained largely out of the political spotlight.
Now 31 and reportedly expecting her first child, Tiffany plans to continue her private life away from politics, marking a notable contrast to her sporadic appearances during Trump’s first term.
Barron Trump
At 18, Barron Trump has emerged as an unexpected asset to his father’s 2024 campaign, advising on strategies to engage Gen Z voters.
The six-foot-seven teenager, now studying at New York University, influenced his father’s campaign appearances, including a high-profile interview with YouTuber Adin Ross, which Barron recommended as a way to reach younger audiences.
In-Laws and Extended Family
While Jared Kushner, Ivanka’s husband and a key figure in Trump’s first administration, is not expected to return in an official capacity, he will advise the president on Middle Eastern affairs.
Kushner’s father, Charles Kushner, and Tiffany’s father-in-law, Massad Boulos, are slated for formal roles as the ambassador to France and Middle East advisor, respectively.
As Trump’s second term begins, his family’s influence will remain significant, even as they adopt a more informal and advisory presence in the administration.
