Melania Trump Delays White House Tradition Due to Anti-Musk Protests

Spring garden tours at the White House were delayed by one day after nearby protests raised security concerns. The announcement came from Melania Trump’s office, which emphasized safety as the main reason. Later that day, the former First Lady made an appearance at a State Department event.

The demonstrations, organized under the banner “Hands Off!”, targeted both former President Donald Trump and DOGE Director Elon Musk. Protests took place nationwide, with the largest crowd gathering in Washington, D.C., where thousands participated.

Political tensions have grown in the wake of these protests, particularly due to remarks made by some Democratic lawmakers. Several comments were criticized as harsh or even xenophobic, sparking debate about the line between political critique and personal attack.

Melania Trump, who was born in Slovenia, has often faced public scrutiny over her immigration past. During the protests, critics revived these arguments, leading to backlash over their relevance and tone.

Elon Musk, originally from South Africa, was also a target. Some lawmakers accused him of holding undemocratic ideals tied to his birthplace, despite his consistent rejection of apartheid and authoritarianism.

Commentators across the political spectrum condemned these remarks, arguing that focusing on personal heritage distracts from substantive policy debates. Many urged leaders to keep discussions respectful and centered on real issues.

With tensions still high, White House officials remain vigilant for future demonstrations. The postponed garden tours are expected to continue soon, but with increased security measures in place.