Melania Trump upheld the tradition of First Ladies visiting patients at the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC. She read a Christmas story to the children, and while it was a heartwarming moment, social media criticized Melania. Some individuals claimed she lacked emotion and struggled with English.
The First Lady’s practice of visiting a children’s hospital began with Bess Truman, who was in office from 1945 to 1953. This festive tradition aims to bring joy to the children receiving treatment.
Melania Trump has continued to provide the children with an early Christmas gift by spending time with them. On December 5th, the First Lady of the US visited the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC.
The hospital mentioned on its website that Melania was “accompanied by two amazing patients, Faith and Riley, whose vibrant personalities and positive energy added to the festive atmosphere of this special occasion.”
The visit “remains one of the most treasured traditions at Children’s National, fostering meaningful connections and encouragement for patients, families, and staff during the holiday season.”
“We appreciate the First Lady for dedicating her time, compassion, and holiday spirit to our patients and families,” said Michelle Riley-Brown, MHA, FACHE, president & CEO of Children’s National. “From remarkable former patients like Caoilinn to children like Riley and Faith, I am reminded daily of the incredible strength and bravery of the young lives we support. Her visit brings moments of joy, comfort, and hope to families spending this holiday away from home.
Melania Trump mocked online over Christmas reading at Children’s Hospital
While visiting, she took a seat in a large red chair positioned in front of a Christmas tree and read the Mac Barnett
First Lady Melania Trump reads a Christmas book to young kids at the Children's National Hospital
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) December 5, 2025
pic.twitter.com/VcxcaFCRXQ
How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney to a crowd of two dozen children.
As we all know, her first language is Slovenian, and critics quickly pointed out that she appeared to have trouble reading aloud in English.
“Can Santa see in the dark? Does he wear night vision that makes everything green?” Melania read, as she seemed to struggle with the pronunciation of several words, critics remarked.
The criticism arises particularly after the Trump administration’s strict policies on immigration, especially since many individuals do not speak English.
“She can’t even read correctly, or communicate in English clearly! There’s no connection with the children she’s reading to… Completely lacking in any emotion. The kids deserve better…” one X user commented, according to The Mirror.
“So… Melania Trump struggles with reading aloud. What did you MAGAs do??? lol,” a second user added.
A third user observed, “From the most anti-immigrant administration ever. The irony is f—— insane,” while a fourth stated, “I heard Melania Trump reading a Christmas story to children. If she were on the street talking, ICE would be detaining her.”
Brought toys for the children and wished them “strength and love”
Melania Trump concluded her reading by expressing her hopes for the children to have strength and “plenty of toys.” She also brought gifts for the kids.
The first lady remarked, “I’m confident that Santa will come to see all of you this Christmas and deliver many toys, so I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year. I wish you an abundance of strength and love,” while also mentioning that President Donald Trump “is sending his love and best wishes too.”
Visiting the children’s hospital is a lovely tradition. We hope they all enjoy a Christmas filled with joy and affection.
What do you think about the criticism directed at Melania? Please share your opinions in the comments on Facebook.
She did the best she could. My argument is not with her but with her ‘husband’.