In an interview with Fox & Friends, Melania Trump shared her thoughts on returning to the White House as First Lady after her husband, Donald Trump, was sworn in for a second term on January 20. When asked if their move back would feel different compared to when they first arrived following the Obama administration, she was candid in her response.

Reflecting on the experience, Melania stated, “This time, I know exactly where we’re going. I’m familiar with the rooms we’ll be living in and understand the process much better.”

She went on to contrast their initial transition into the White House, admitting, “The first time was a challenge. We didn’t have much information, as it was withheld from us by the previous administration.”

Melania Trump didn’t hold back when discussing the obstacles she faced while transitioning into the White House.

In her book Melania, the former model from Slovenia revealed that the Obama administration had denied her family early access to the presidential residence—an essential step in preparing for their move. This setback caused delays in planned renovations and adjustments.

She further explained that “protocols and politics” interfered with what she had hoped would be a seamless transition.

«Unfortunately, my plans to start preparing the residence before the inauguration were disrupted by political procedures and restrictions,» she wrote in her bestselling book.

«Regrettably, our team was not granted the access we had requested in December to visit the White House residence.»

At the time, Melania was particularly focused on ensuring a comfortable environment for her son, Barron, who was enrolled at Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School in New York City. To provide him with stability, she delayed her move to Washington until the school year ended.

«Relocating comes with logistical challenges, but my priority was to create a sense of stability and comfort for Barron during this transition,» she shared.

A Break from Tradition

Reflecting on their move, Melania revealed that renovations didn’t begin until after they had officially settled in, as the Obamas had broken what she described as a long-standing tradition.

«Those three weeks would have been crucial for measuring, planning, and making necessary preparations.»

She also described the state of the White House when her family arrived.

«The existing decor was either outdated or not to my taste,» she noted.

Barron’s room was her top priority, as he was the first young boy to live in the White House since John F. Kennedy Jr. For decades, the children’s bedrooms had been designed for girls, so Melania was determined to create a space that suited her son’s needs.

Meanwhile, former First Lady Michelle Obama notably did not attend her husband’s successor’s inauguration.

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