Melania Trump sparked controversy after signing the Take It Down Act—a move no First Lady has ever made. Though her signature holds no legal weight, President Trump encouraged it, saying: “She deserves to sign it.”
The new law makes it a federal crime to share or threaten to share sexual images, including AI-generated deepfakes, without consent. Melania called it a “national victory” to protect children, warning: “AI and social media are the digital candy for the next generation… but unlike sugar, these can be deadly.”
Critics on X slammed the act as unconstitutional, noting that a First Lady has no authority to sign legislation. One user wrote: “Imagine the MAGA response if Jill Biden had done this.” Others questioned the signature’s validity.
Though Melania’s signature is symbolic, her advocacy played a key role. Trump praised her efforts, but the backlash highlights growing concerns over political symbolism and protocol. Still, the law now forces platforms to remove explicit content within 48 hours, marking a significant step in digital safety.
