Donald and Melania Trump gathered in the Rose Garden for an important announcement that captured significant attention.
In a surprising twist during a major White House event, Melania Trump stepped outside typical political boundaries.
Earlier in the week on May 19, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Take It Down Act into law. This legislation, which Melania played a crucial role in advancing through Congress, aims to impose penalties for online sexual exploitation.
This newly enacted law considers the unauthorized sharing or threatening to share intimate images, including AI-created ‘deepfakes,’ as a federal crime. The law focuses on protecting individuals’ consent and privacy.
AP News reported that this law mandates websites and social media platforms to remove such content within 48 hours upon a victim’s request. Additionally, they must ensure the elimination of duplicate versions of these materials.
In an extraordinary development, Melania also added her signature to the bill, highlighting it as a ‘national victory’ that protects children from online exploitation, particularly involving artificial intelligence.
She stated, “AI and social media act like digital candy for today’s youth, alluring yet potentially harmful, impacting their cognitive development. Unlike sugar, these technologies can be misused to shape beliefs, influence emotions, and can be extremely dangerous.”
President Trump emphasized that women have been victims of harassment through unauthorized deepfakes and explicit images, describing the situation as ‘terribly wrong.’
It is quite rare for a First Lady to sign legislation, but President Trump encouraged Melania to go ahead.
“Go ahead, sign it,” he urged, adding, “She has earned the right to do so.”
While Melania’s signature is symbolic, as she is not an elected official, it underscores her commitment to the cause.
President Trump complimented Melania for her relentless efforts, saying, “Honey, this is amazing work. The legislation seemed challenging yet vital, and you managed to accomplish it. Congratulations!”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed at a press briefing: “Today in the Rose Garden, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump signed the Take It Down Act into law.”
She continued, “First Lady Melania Trump played a pivotal role in passing this crucial legislation.”
Leavitt elaborated that the Take It Down Act aims to protect victims from digital exploitation by holding online platforms accountable for the removal of such imagery. It also seeks justice for victims by empowering prosecutors to take action against those who publish non-consensual explicit images.
During the bill’s progression, Melania engaged with House and Senate members, survivors, their families, and advocates.
“We appreciate the First Lady’s dedication to this matter,” Leavitt added, “and as we move forward, she will continue advocating for children’s welfare through her Be Best agenda.”
Melania’s efforts in support of the Take It Down Act extend her Be Best campaign initiated during her husband’s first term, focusing on children’s well-being, responsible social media use, and combating opioid abuse.
