Lara Trump's Meteoric Rise Marks New Era for Trump Family
On Tuesday night, Lara Trump took center stage at the Republican National Convention, symbolizing a shift within the Trump family since Donald Trump’s defeat in the 2020 presidential election. Dressed in a black dress and adorned with a shimmering USA flag brooch, she used the primetime spotlight to showcase a softer side of her father-in-law, focusing on his role as a grandfather to her two young children.
As the crowd roared, she raised her fist and recounted a gunman’s attempt on Trump’s life during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a bullet narrowly missed his head. “Maybe you got to see a side of Donald Trump on Saturday that you were not sure existed, until you saw it with your own eyes,” she told the audience.
Lara Trump, 41, now serves as the co-chair of the Republican Party, a role she was hand-picked for by her father-in-law as he makes another bid for the White House. Alongside her husband Eric and his older brother Don Jr., she has become a prominent voice in Donald Trump’s campaign against President Joe Biden, wielding significant influence in his political sphere.
While Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner, who held high profiles in the White House following Trump’s 2016 victory, have distanced themselves from politics in recent years, Lara has stepped into the spotlight. Her appearance at the convention has sparked interest in her role within the family and potential future political ambitions.
“I thought she was fantastic,” said Alina Habba, Trump’s legal spokeswoman. “She spoke from the heart about moms and him being a grandfather—things only she can talk about.”
Long-time observers believe Lara Trump’s prominence will only continue to grow. “Her speech was her introduction to the nation in a big way,” said Eric Cortellessa, a reporter who recently interviewed her for a Time magazine profile. “This is the first time she is positioned in a role with real power inside the Republican Party.”
Michele Merrell, a Republican state committeewoman for Broward County, Florida, noted that Lara’s appointment to the RNC has made a significant impact. “The fundraising is going through the roof,” she said. “The change in leadership has reignited the party.”
Comparisons are being drawn between the roles of Lara and Eric Trump in this campaign and that of Jared and Ivanka in 2016. While Eric remains heavily involved in the Trump Organization, he is likely to continue overseeing the family business if Trump returns to the White House. Meanwhile, Lara is positioned to climb further within the Republican Party.
Eric Cortellessa also hinted at Don Jr.’s potential political aspirations. “Don Jr says he’s not interested in politics, but those around him think he has a real itch for it,” he said. “Lara even mentioned in a recent interview—’if there’s any Trump who is going to run for higher office, look out for Don’.”
Eric and Don Jr have been steadfast supporters of their father, particularly since the attempt on his life. They were also key in choosing JD Vance as Trump’s running mate. Don Jr, a favorite of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) base, appeared emotional when Trump received a hero’s welcome at the convention hall.
Speaking at a side event, Don Jr highlighted his father’s softer side, presenting him as a grandfather and family man. He even introduced his 17-year-old daughter, Kai Trump, who shared a touching story about her “normal grandpa.”
Despite the emphasis on family unity, notable absences at the convention include Trump’s wife Melania and their 18-year-old son Barron. Although they have been less visible, recent appearances suggest they might have political futures as well.
Linda Stoch, vice-president of Club 47 USA, dismissed concerns about Melania and Barron’s absence, insisting that the family has always been supportive. When asked about the next phase of MAGA politics, she hinted at Barron’s potential involvement. “Maybe Barron,” she said.
