Last week, Melania Trump was recognized by Fox with the “Patriot of the Year” Award, attending the New York ceremony on her own, without Donald by her side.
A body language expert noted that appearing solo actually gave her a noticeable “boost.”
Fox hosted its annual Patriot Gala on November 6 at The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Brookville, New York. Melania accepted the “Patriot of the Year” award and delivered a seven-minute speech to enthusiastic applause.
During her speech, the first lady spoke about the “spirit of ambition,” urging Americans to “celebrate everyone who dares to think differently, for it is these courageous Americans who are the heartbeat of our civilization.”
“Chasing your dreams is the American way,” Melania stated. “Innovation here is not accidental — it’s in our DNA. In this country, innovation is a form of patriotism. Most innovators know it can be a lonely path, pushing the boundaries of imagination and believing in their own power to create new realities. This is where real change begins.”
The Slovenian-born former model added, “Every breakthrough begins with someone daring to imagine what’s never been done. Friends may call it unrealistic, family may call it ‘far-fetched’ — yet the human spirit moves forward, transforming vision into reality. One mind, one idea, one act of courage.”
Donald Trump remained in Washington, DC, hosting leaders from Central Asian nations, leaving the first lady to represent the family in New York alone.
According to body language expert Judi James, speaking to the Daily Mail, this solo appearance was actually advantageous for Melania, allowing her to “command attention like a star in her own right.”
James explained, “If Donald’s absence affected her at all, it was to increase rather than diminish her visual confidence.” She noted that Melania’s official portrait for her second term as FLOTUS portrayed her with CEO-like authority — power dressing, splayed arms atop a boardroom table, and a piercing stare signaling that she meant business.
The expert also pointed out that there was “no trace of nervousness” in Melania. She appeared confident, with no hint of Imposter Syndrome or feeling like Donald’s ‘spare,’ while accepting the prestigious award.
Judi James concluded that Melania communicates differently when her husband isn’t present, showing a more spontaneous and engaging style. “She usually sticks closely to a formal script, but here she used her eyes for punctuation and delivered her speech with more personality and humor than previous addresses,” James said. “She truly looked like the right person at the right place, time, and spotlight for this prestigious event.”
