Melania Trump Intensifies Efforts to Shield Son Barron from Public Scrutiny as He Begins College

Melania Trump has long shared a close and protective bond with her only son, Barron Trump, who has now stepped into life as a university student. As Donald Trump prepares for his second term after winning the 2024 election, Melania’s concern for her 18-year-old son’s well-being has reportedly intensified.

An insider told PEOPLE that Melania remains deeply focused on shielding Barron from the pressures and controversies that come with being part of the Trump family. “Melania worries about the hate in the country and how it falls on her son, who is innocent of any of this,” the source shared, referencing the scrutiny the Trump family continues to face.

The former first lady is known for fostering open communication with Barron as a way to normalize his life, despite the constant public spotlight. “She is and has been a good sounding board for him,” the insider explained. “They talk about life as it is and how they are in the spotlight. She tries to normalize his life—if that is even possible.”

Melania, who has spoken fondly of her close relationship with her own parents, reportedly aspires to maintain that same dynamic with Barron. “Melania’s most meaningful moments of life have been with her family, and Barron is the lucky benefactor of that love and caring,” the source noted. “Any child in the world spotlight like this would be lucky to have a parent so willing to give her time to help keep his life running smoothly.”

The insider also emphasized Melania’s desire for Barron to have as “normal” a life as possible. “She wants to encourage him to make friends, be super careful of the haters—which can be anywhere, especially on college campuses these days—and keep him mentally healthy by having open communication with him and the rest of her immediate family,” the source said.

This comes after reports suggesting Melania has taken steps to ensure Barron doesn’t live with classmates at New York University, where he is enrolled. A confidante previously told OK! Magazine: “She will do everything she can to make sure Barron does well in school and is socially and mentally adjusted to his life as a college student. Living in a dorm in a college town isn’t in the stars for him at this point.”

The source added that Barron, who has already begun to form his own political opinions, is being carefully monitored by his mother. “Whether or not others think he is capable of being on his own, Melania feels it’s better to be around him as much as possible.

I see that continuing,” they explained. For Melania, ensuring Barron’s mental health and stability remains a top priority, even as the Trump family steps back into the political limelight.