Melania Trump breaks political protocol

On May 19, President Donald Trump signed the Take It Down Act into law during a Rose Garden ceremony, joined by First Lady Melania Trump, who played a key role in advocating for the bill. The new law makes it a federal crime to knowingly publish or threaten to publish intimate images without consent, including AI-generated deepfakes. It requires online platforms to remove such content within 48 hours of a victim’s request and take steps to prevent duplicates. In an unusual move, Melania also symbolically signed the bill, calling it a “national victory” to protect children from digital exploitation.

Melania emphasized the dangers of AI and social media on children’s development, stating they can be weaponized to harm emotions and beliefs. President Trump praised her involvement, saying she was instrumental in the bill’s passage. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Melania’s extensive engagement with lawmakers, survivors, and advocates. The act builds on Melania’s Be Best campaign from Trump’s first term, which focuses on children’s well-being, social media use, and opioid abuse. The law is aimed at holding tech platforms accountable and providing justice for victims of online sexual exploitation.