Trump Diverts Rally Talk to Melania’s Underwear

During a recent rally in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, President Donald Trump briefly shifted the conversation from inflation and lowering drug prices to his wife Melania Trump’s underwear. The 79-year-old president made the remarks on Friday, December 19, while also reflecting on the FBI’s 2022 search of his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

Personal Remarks at the Podium

Trump unexpectedly referenced his wife’s personal belongings while addressing supporters. “They went into my wife’s closet… they looked at her drawers,” he said, referring to Melania, 55, whom he married in 2005.

He continued, “Her undergarments, sometimes referred to as panties, are folded perfect, wrapped. They’re, like, so perfect.” He added, “I think that she steams them.”

The comments drew attention for their personal and unusual nature, especially during a rally focused on economic issues.

Context: The FBI Mar-a-Lago Search

The FBI executed a search warrant at Mar-a-Lago in August 2022. The investigation followed the National Archives and Records Administration’s removal of 15 boxes of documents that should have been handed over at the end of Trump’s presidency.

The public later saw the warrant and property receipt, which showed agents were seeking evidence that Trump may have removed or destroyed records, obstructed justice, or violated the Espionage Act. The search uncovered 11 sets of classified documents, including some marked “top secret,” typically viewed only at secure government facilities.

Legal Battles and Past Investigations

Trump was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2023 over his alleged mishandling of classified documents. He was arrested, arraigned in the U.S. District Court of South Florida, and pleaded not guilty. An updated indictment added counts, but the case was dismissed in July 2024.

Over the past decade, Trump has faced numerous legal controversies at both state and federal levels. These include investigations into alleged hush money payments during the 2016 campaign, actions related to the January 6 Capitol riot, and cases involving attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.

Political Implications

As Trump makes headlines with both legal and personal remarks, political observers note that related topics will continue shaping the conversation leading up to the 2026 midterm elections.