...By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
Melania’s Father Attends Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Speech
Viktor Knavs, the father of former first lady Melania Trump, was present at former President Donald Trump’s speech at Mar-a-Lago, while Melania was absent.
Knavs, 79, sat in a prominent position in the front row, flanked by Trump’s two eldest sons, Eric and Don Jr. Trump thanked his family for their support during his speech but notably did not mention his wife of 18 years.
It remains unclear why Melania Trump did not attend the speech. The Knavs are known to be close to their daughter, son-in-law, and grandson, traveling with them to different locations.
Melania’s MIA Status in the Speech
While Melania’s father was present during Trump’s speech, the former first lady was absent. The reason for her absence remains unclear, and inquiries to Trump spokespeople and those close to the couple were not returned.
Melania’s absence is a sharp contrast to last week, when she was seen with Trump after the indictment was announced. Although she is reportedly hurt and angry about the alleged affair with porn star Stormy Daniels, she remains willing to support her husband.
Melania’s Reaction to Previous Scandals
Melania has stood beside her husband during previous scandals, including defending him during the 2016 presidential campaign when an old “Access Hollywood” interview was released, where Trump spoke negatively about women.
However, she was reportedly furious when news of the Stormy Daniels affair broke in 2018. Melania canceled her plans to attend the World Economic Forum with Trump and visited the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C. with her mother before flying to Mar-a-Lago.
Melania’s silence when the payment to Daniels was revealed was notable. A source close to her stated that she “remains angry and doesn’t want to hear” about the alleged $130,000 in hush money paid to Daniels.
Commentary
Melania Trump’s absence at the speech raises questions about her current relationship with her husband, and whether she is distancing herself from him amid ongoing legal troubles.
Her silence regarding the Stormy Daniels scandal and alleged hush money payment may suggest a deep-seated anger towards her husband, despite her willingness to support him.
While Melania’s father’s presence at the speech shows support for Trump from her family, it is unclear why Melania did not attend.
