According to a report by Newsweek on Monday, December 4, 20203, in the aftermath of Rosalynn Carter’s funeral, a TikTok video has ignited a heated online discussion, alleging that Michelle Obama and other former first ladies harbor jealousy towards Melania Trump
The video, posted by TikTok user @republicanlatina03, portrays Melania Trump as a beacon of light amid the darkness, sparking a clash of opinions on social media platforms.
The memorial service, attended by prominent figures such as former President Bill Clinton, President Joe Biden, and their respective spouses, showcased a distinctive moment when Melania Trump stood out in a light gray coat amid a sea of mourners in black attire.
@republicanlatina03’s video suggests that this visual contrast is symbolic of Melania Trump’s unique radiance, with the TikTok user claiming, “[They’re] just jealous of Melania Trump, and this just proves that the jealousy continues.”
Accompanying the accusation, the TikTok video juxtaposes a photo of Melania Trump gracefully walking ahead of Michelle Obama and Laura Bush, implying a sense of resentment from her fellow first ladies.
The video contends that Melania Trump’s beauty and elegance are the sources of this alleged envy, stating:
“You hate what you cannot be. Melania Trump… is beautiful as always, super gorgeous.”
The focal point of the video shifts to an image captured during the memorial service, where sunlight seemingly bathes Melania Trump, positioned at the edge of the front row.
@republicanlatina03 interprets this as a metaphorical representation of truth and hope, further fueling the narrative of Melania Trump being a luminous figure in contrast to the other first ladies.
Unsurprisingly, the TikTok clip has sparked a polarized response among users, with some echoing the sentiment of jealousy, while others vehemently disagree.
TikTok user @mrsjean01 challenges the accuser, dismissing the notion that Michelle Obama, in particular, would harbor envy towards Melania Trump.
She asserts Michelle Obama’s significant achievements and status as the “forever first lady,” labeling the accusation as delusional.
Adding complexity to the discourse, the video references an incident from Melania Trump’s past – the controversy surrounding her 2016 Republican National Convention speech.
Trump campaign staff writer Meredith McIver admitted to incorporating passages from Michelle Obama’s 2008 speech, emphasizing that no harm was intended.
Furthermore, the video’s claim regarding Melania Trump’s choice of a gray coat at Rosalynn Carter’s funeral is contextualized with examples from other first ladies.
Fox News host Jesse Watters is cited for displaying photos of Hillary Clinton and Barbara Bush wearing gray attire to respective funerals, suggesting a historical precedent for such wardrobe choices.