Melania Trump’s newly unveiled 2025 official White House portrait sparked widespread debate, marking a stark contrast to her 2017 image.
The black-and-white photo, taken by longtime Trump family photographer Régine Mahaux, depicted her in a commanding pose—leaning forward on a reflective glass table, dressed in a tailored black suit with an intense gaze. The Washington Monument in the background reinforced her connection to national history and power,
Public reactions were divided. While some praised the portrait’s elegance and strength, others criticized it as overly stylized and severe. Comparisons to Donald Trump’s expressions fueled further discussion. The shift from her softer 2017 portrait to this more authoritative image highlighted her evolving public persona.The portrait’s release coincided with scrutiny over Melania’s inauguration outfit—a navy double-breasted coat, black gloves, and a wide-brimmed boater hat. While some admired the look’s sophistication, others found it too severe.
The oversized hat, designed by Eric Javits, became a talking point, especially after a last-minute replacement was rushed to Mar-a-Lago. A playful air kiss between Melania and Donald, necessitated by the hat’s size, briefly softened her otherwise poised demeanor,
Melania’s fashion choices have long reflected her complex relationship with the public. As former White House correspondent Kate Bennett noted, her style serves as both a statement and a shield, reinforcing her enigmatic presence in the political world.
President Donald Trump sitting at a table in a meeting, Photo Credit: realdonaldtrump/Instagram
“President Trump is a man of the people,” Leavitt said. “His commitment is solid, and he proves that every single day.”
She doubled down on that message in a follow-up statement, explaining that “President Trump has bruises on his hand because he’s continuously working and shaking hands all day, every day.”
Trump’s Hand Has Shown Bruising Before
This isn’t the first time people have noticed Trump’s hand looking bruised or discolored. In both August and November of last year, similar marks were visible in photos captured by news agencies. And in 2024, multiple media outlets took note of the same thing.
President Donald Trump welcoming French President Emmanuel Macron, Photo Credit: Inside Edition/Youtube
Trump himself addressed the issue in an interview with Time magazine last December. When asked about the bruising, he brushed it off, explaining that it was simply the result of shaking hands with “thousands of people.”
Given Trump’s extensive public appearances and frequent rallies, it’s not surprising that his hands would show some wear and tear. Unlike many politicians who limit their interactions, Trump is well-known for greeting supporters face-to-face, often spending hours shaking hands with crowds.
President Donald Trump’s hands seen with bruise, Photo Credit: Inside Edition/Youtube
Speculation Over Trump’s Health
Because of Trump’s age—he was the oldest president ever to take office—his health has been a frequent topic of discussion. Back in December, during an interview on Meet the Press, Trump stated that he planned to release his full medical report. However, as of now, that report has not yet been made public.
Trump, now 78, is still actively campaigning and maintaining a packed schedule, showing no signs of slowing down. His energy and stamina remain central to his appeal, especially compared to President Joe Biden, who holds the record for the oldest sitting U.S. president and has faced repeated scrutiny over his mental and physical fitness.
President Donald Trump’s hands seen with bruise, Photo Credit: Inside Edition/Youtube
The Bottom Line
While some may speculate about the bruising on Trump’s hand, the White House is making one thing clear—this is a president who never stops working. From packed events to meeting world leaders, Trump remains as active as ever, proving once again why his supporters see him as a fighter who puts in the work.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt was quick to shut down speculation, making it clear that the mark is nothing more than the result of Trump’s busy schedule.
President Donald Trump sitting at a table in a meeting, Photo Credit: realdonaldtrump/Instagram
“President Trump is a man of the people,” Leavitt said. “His commitment is solid, and he proves that every single day.”
She doubled down on that message in a follow-up statement, explaining that “President Trump has bruises on his hand because he’s continuously working and shaking hands all day, every day.”
Trump’s Hand Has Shown Bruising Before
This isn’t the first time people have noticed Trump’s hand looking bruised or discolored. In both August and November of last year, similar marks were visible in photos captured by news agencies. And in 2024, multiple media outlets took note of the same thing.
President Donald Trump welcoming French President Emmanuel Macron, Photo Credit: Inside Edition/Youtube
Trump himself addressed the issue in an interview with Time magazine last December. When asked about the bruising, he brushed it off, explaining that it was simply the result of shaking hands with “thousands of people.”
Given Trump’s extensive public appearances and frequent rallies, it’s not surprising that his hands would show some wear and tear. Unlike many politicians who limit their interactions, Trump is well-known for greeting supporters face-to-face, often spending hours shaking hands with crowds.
President Donald Trump’s hands seen with bruise, Photo Credit: Inside Edition/Youtube
Speculation Over Trump’s Health
Because of Trump’s age—he was the oldest president ever to take office—his health has been a frequent topic of discussion. Back in December, during an interview on Meet the Press, Trump stated that he planned to release his full medical report. However, as of now, that report has not yet been made public.
Trump, now 78, is still actively campaigning and maintaining a packed schedule, showing no signs of slowing down. His energy and stamina remain central to his appeal, especially compared to President Joe Biden, who holds the record for the oldest sitting U.S. president and has faced repeated scrutiny over his mental and physical fitness.
President Donald Trump’s hands seen with bruise, Photo Credit: Inside Edition/Youtube
The Bottom Line
While some may speculate about the bruising on Trump’s hand, the White House is making one thing clear—this is a president who never stops working. From packed events to meeting world leaders, Trump remains as active as ever, proving once again why his supporters see him as a fighter who puts in the work.
