The longstanding discord within the Trump family, particularly between Ivanka Trump and her stepmother, Melania Trump, has escalated into an intense rivalry that poses a significant threat to Donald Trump's ambitions for a return to the Oval Office in 2024. Central to this family drama is the contention over the former president's estimated $3 billion fortune, with insiders suggesting that the acrimony between the two women could derail Trump's political aspirations.
"Ivanka and Melania hate being in the same room - and never speak except to hiss catty comments," disclosed a source close to the family, illustrating the depth of animosity that has plagued their relationship from the outset, as reported by Globe magazine. Ivanka reportedly views Melania, Trump's third wife, as a "gold-digging opportunist," unfavorably comparing her to her own mother, the late socialite Ivana Trump. "Ivanka sneers her dad settled for Slovenian seconds when he wed model Melania," the insider claimed, shedding light on the disdain she holds for her stepmother.
Conversely, Melania is believed to harbor her own grievances towards Ivanka, whom she secretly refers to as "The Princess," per confidants. This nickname reflects Melania's perception of Ivanka as a "spoiled brat whose sense of entitlement knows no bounds." The friction between the two is further exacerbated by Ivanka's belief that she and her siblings, Donald Jr. and Eric, are the rightful heirs to their father's empire, relegating Melania's son Barron to a lesser share.
This internal family conflict was starkly evident during Trump's presidency, with Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, serving as prominent advisers, effectively sidelining Melania from significant discussions related to government policy and the family's business dealings. "Melania was frozen out of any discussions about government policy - and her husband's business dealings!" revealed a source, highlighting the power dynamics at play within the White House.
Ivanka's ambitions to carve out a role reminiscent of a "modern-day Jackie O" during her father's presidency only served to heighten tensions. "She saw herself as becoming a modern-day Jackie O - with all of the glamour and youth and energy of the Kennedys," explained an insider, underscoring her desire to assume many of the traditional responsibilities of the first lady.
Melania, however, was not content to cede the spotlight. Insiders reveal that she waged a "relentless campaign to end the humiliation" brought on by Ivanka's prominence. "Melania may have given the impression she didn't care about being first lady," shared an insider, "But she was privately obsessed with any mention of herself in the media." Her strategic moves, including the infamous choice to wear a jacket with the message "I really don't care, do u?" during a visit to detained migrant children, are believed to be veiled criticisms of Ivanka's first lady aspirations, as reported by Vanity Fair.
Business Times cannot independently verify the claim of Ivanka and Melania Trump's feud.
The ongoing strife between Ivanka and Melania has reportedly left deep wounds, with neither showing interest in participating in Trump's 2024 campaign efforts. "More than a year ago, Ivanka announced she would have nothing to do with her father's reelection bid - and Melania has been largely absent since it began," stated a source, indicating the lasting impact of their feud.
As Donald Trump endeavors to unite his family ahead of a critical political juncture, the complexities of the situation are compounded by the knowledge both Ivanka and Melania possess, which could potentially harm his public image. "Both Ivanka and Melania know too much," said a source, hinting at the delicate balance Trump must navigate.
The stakes of this family conflict are further elevated by recent legal and financial setbacks faced by Trump, including substantial fines and settlements that could influence the distribution of his estate. "Donald isn't even dead and they're already fighting for every last nickel," lamented an insider, capturing the essence of the bitter battle that continues to unfold within the Trump family.
