In his new book, renowned author Michael Wolff gives readers a unique insight into Donald and Melania Trump’s relationship during the 2024 presidential campaign. Wolff discusses the intricate dynamics of what he refers to as “the most public marriage in the nation.”
“All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America,” Wolff’s latest work, delves into the Trumps’ relationship characterized by frequent separations and meticulously managed public appearances. Wolff quotes a source, described as a “Mar-a-Lago patio confidant,” who stated emphatically, “She (expletive) hates him,” expressing surprise that this was not already apparent.
Throughout the 18-month campaign leading up to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in July 2024, Melania Trump was noticeably absent from the campaign events. Wolff reports that she unequivocally declined to deliver what was supposed to be a “showstopper” speech at the convention. Although she did join her husband on stage after his acceptance speech, she remained silent.
Wolff’s book paints a picture of a campaign staff member who is often left guessing about Melania Trump’s whereabouts. She wasn’t a permanent fixture but more of an infrequent guest at public events with Trump. The mystery deepened as even those closely working on the campaign were unsure of her residential address, leading to speculation that she had her quarters in Trump Tower, separate from her husband.
As the possibility of a second Trump administration loomed, the campaign started introducing the idea of a “part-time First Lady.” The suggestion was that Melania would split her time between the White House and Trump Tower in Manhattan to stay close to her son Barron, who was studying at New York University. According to Wolff, this arrangement embodied “an American marriage on a coolly transactional basis.”
The First Lady’s absence was particularly conspicuous during Trump’s legal proceedings. Wolff reports that when campaign staffers suggested she accompany her husband to his first indictment in New York, she laughed and replied, “Nice try.” She was also visibly absent during the Stormy Daniels trial, where Trump faced 34 felony charges for making hush money payments.
According to Wolff, Melania’s inconsistent public appearances were a pattern established during the 2017-2021 White House years. She was sporadically at the White House and spent limited time at Mar-a-Lago.
Those in Trump’s inner circle reportedly noticed that she was more of a peripheral figure than an active first lady. Wolff highlights that despite her prolonged absences and limited involvement in public duties, the media did not scrutinize her elusive presence during that period.
In October 2024, Melania published her book, “Melania,” which surprised the Trump campaign. Wolff writes that campaign officials were uncertain whether the book’s timing was intended as “a diss or a kiss (of course from afar)” to Trump. The book portrayed her husband in a generally positive light, including his “thoughtful” practice of regularly checking on her health by calling her doctor.
The day before an essential rally at Madison Square Garden in New York City on October 27, Melania unexpectedly offered to introduce Trump, which Wolff interprets as either a “pity move” or a “clear olive branch.” Concerning election night, she “sent word that she would not appear with him unless it were an outright win” – a condition that was eventually fulfilled.
A group of Trump campaign figures, including co-chairs Susie Wiles—now the president’s Chief of Staff—and Chris LaCivita, strongly denied Wolff’s work in November: “He is a known peddler of fake news who routinely concocts situations, conversations, and conclusions that never happened.” They urged others to “completely disregard whatever nonsense he eventually publishes.”
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung dismissed the book’s claims with strong criticism, calling Michael Wolff a proven “fraud” who “routinely fabricates stories.” Cheung alleged that Wolff’s writing stems from a “sick and warped imagination” and accused him of having an extreme bias against Trump. He further mocked Wolff’s mental capacity, asserting that an obsession has compromised his judgment with the president.
Wolff’s 2018 bestseller “Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House” stirred up significant controversy due to its revelations about the Trump administration’s internal issues. Wolff insists his sources are accurate, although the book does not identify them. However, it provides detailed accounts of Wiles’ and LaCivita’s time on the campaign.
