Today, First Lady Melania Trump delivered the keynote address at the Senate Spouses Luncheon held at the National Gallery of Art. In her speech, Mrs. Trump underscored the significance of empathy, public service, and unity in fostering the welfare of children and youth.
Addressing an esteemed gathering of spouses of United States Senators, Mrs. Trump celebrated the milestones achieved through her BE BEST initiative, particularly its foundational project, Fostering the Future. Notable among these achievements is the bipartisan enactment of the “Take It Down Act,” which was signed into law on May 19, 2025, alongside a substantial $25 million allocation in the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget designed to assist youth transitioning out of foster care.
The complete remarks from First Lady Melania Trump at the 2025 Senate Spouses Luncheon are detailed below.
Complete Remarks by First Lady Melania Trump at the Senate Spouses Luncheon, National Gallery of Art – May 21, 2025
Good afternoon, everyone. I extend my thanks to Jonathan, Julie, Sandy, and Margaret, for their warm introductions and the gracious reception I’ve experienced today. I am truly appreciative of all your efforts in support of Fostering the Future, a cornerstone of the BE BEST initiative.
I also want to express my gratitude to Kaywin from the National Gallery of Art and to Usha for her dedicated service to our Nation.
As we come together today, we are not just spouses of elected officials; we are impactful advocates with the potential to inspire change and address critical issues. Let us leverage our collective influence to uplift others and commit ourselves to shaping a brighter future for the next generation that will guide us forward.
At the heart of our gathering lies the recognition that empathy and public service are not mere concepts; they are imperative actions. They are reflected in bipartisan legislation that safeguards children from exploitation and are evident in budgetary decisions that prioritize the needs of vulnerable young adults. They thrive within our communities and homes, where compassionate leaders utilize their talents and resources to enhance the welfare of our youth.
I am proud to announce that, in partnership with Secretary Turner from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Office of Management and Budget, we have successfully secured a $25 million investment in the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget aimed at assisting youth transitioning out of foster care. This crucial funding will provide rental assistance and essential services, nurturing stability, independence, and hope for thousands of young people across our Nation.
This investment marks a notable achievement in my BE BEST initiative and reaffirms my steadfast commitment to Fostering the Future—because every child deserves a robust foundation upon which to realize their aspirations.
Nonetheless, our endeavors should not stop here. Just two days ago, I stood alongside the President in the Rose Garden as he signed the “Take It Down Act” into law. That moment was not only significant but deeply moving—culminating years of dedication from survivors, advocates, families, and many of your spouses in the Senate, all laboring tirelessly to protect children and youth from harmful online content.
The overwhelming bipartisan support for this legislation exemplifies what we can achieve when we unite for the welfare of our children. Together, we have empowered families with essential resources to safeguard their self-image and dignity in a digital environment that often overlooks these fundamental aspects.
As we advance, let us continue to lead with empathy, foster collaboration, and create spaces where all children feel safe and empowered. In our roles as spouses, mothers, and fathers, we represent a formidable force for good.
I recently conveyed to military mothers at the White House: through our unwavering love and nurturing insights, we hold the power to inspire, uplift, and shape the hearts of our children.
This power, rooted in compassion and resilience, serves as a beacon of hope that lights the way for future generations.
When a Senator’s vision aligns with truth, the effect can resonate for generations. Historically, American lawmakers have shaped security, prosperity, and civil liberties. Congress possesses significant influence over the character of our nation, beginning with the preservation of human dignity. It is crucial for us, as supporters of our spouses, to reaffirm the importance of truth and integrity.
Thank you.
