Former first lady Melania Trump's upcoming memoir, "Melania," contains excerpts supporting a woman's right to choose, drawing criticism from pro-life advocates who have accused her of abandoning the Republican Party's platform.
Former first lady Melania Trump's upcoming memoir, scheduled for release on October 8, has ignited controversy over her views on abortion. In excerpts previewed by The Guardian, Melania expresses support for a woman's "fundamental right of individual liberty" to make decisions about her own body, including the right to terminate a pregnancy if she chooses.
These excerpts have drawn sharp criticism from pro-life advocates who have long been apprehensive about former President Trump's shifting stance on abortion. Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, labeled Melania's position "anti-feminist" and "outside the teaching of our Catholic faith."
Melania Trump's Memoir Sparks Controversy Over Abortion Views
Similarly, Lila Rose, founder of Live Action, likened Melania's statements to those of Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing them of holding identical pro-choice positions. Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, argued that abortion is not a source of freedom for women.
Melania's views on abortion appear to align with those of her predecessors as first ladies, including Pat Nixon, Betty Ford, Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush, and Laura Bush, who have all expressed support for abortion rights at some point during or after their husbands' presidencies.
Melania Trump's Memoir Sparks Controversy Over Abortion Views
This revelation has further widened the divide within the Republican Party, where the official platform has softened its language on abortion this year. Despite Trump's opposition to a nationwide abortion ban, his previous statements on a Florida amendment that would have extended the legal limit for abortions to six weeks had raised concerns among pro-life supporters.
Melania's memoir has also sparked discussion about the role of spouses in shaping policy decisions. While some argue that former first ladies have historically held significant influence on their husbands' positions, others maintain that they should remain apolitical or at least avoid public statements that conflict with the party line.
Melania Trump's Memoir Sparks Controversy Over Abortion Views
As of publication deadline, Melania Trump's office has not responded to requests for comment on the controversy surrounding her memoir.
