Melania Trump is reportedly preparing to redefine the role of the first lady as she plans to split her time between New York, Florida, and Washington D.C. during the second term of President-elect Donald Trump.

Prioritizing her role as a mother, Melania Trump plans to focus on raising her son Barron while selectively engaging in first lady duties, a decision that marks a distinct approach for the incoming first lady, as she intends to manage her responsibilities on her own terms, as the New York Post reports.

Melania plans to remain a central figure in her son's life, a detail highlighted by her choice to divide her time among the Trumps' residences at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach and Trump Tower in Manhattan.

Sources have indicated that Melania does not plan to live in the White House on a full-time basis. In a statement reported by the Post, a source underscored her intentions, noting she will continue to be a "hands-on mother."

Balancing Motherhood with Official Duties

Even as she navigates this unique arrangement, Melania Trump is determined to follow her own path when it comes to her duties. Her intention to participate in major events but forgo smaller engagements and interviews is a strategic move to control her role.

According to a Mar-a-Lago insider, she will be involved in significant public occasions, yet her involvement will not extend to routine engagements often expected of the first lady.

Her focus remains on Barron, who is currently pursuing his education at New York University and resides in Trump Tower. Melania has made it clear that she respects his decision to live and study in New York, which she described as something he chose independently.

She expressed to Fox News that she does not feel like an "empty nester" because her life still revolves around her responsibilities as a mother.

Guided by Prior Experience in the White House

This term seems less daunting for Melania, given her previous experience in the White House. Reflecting on this familiarity, she told Fox News that she is more prepared now, having gained valuable insights from her first time in the role. She emphasized that prior exposure has equipped her with the knowledge to face upcoming challenges effectively.

Despite Melania's plans for a more defined and personal role, her distinct approach remains grounded in her commitment to her family. As she steps into this era, the narrative surrounding her position as the first lady evolves to accommodate her priorities.

Living between New York and Florida

The choice to reside primarily away from Washington D.C. underscores Melania's commitment to Barron's upbringing in a familiar and stable environment. The decision also signals her preference for balancing public life with private family time.

Melania's residential arrangements include the Trumps' home at Mar-a-Lago, a historic estate serving as both a family retreat and a public venue.

Meanwhile, their Trump Tower residence offers a central location for Barron's education and personal pursuits. By splitting her time, Melania aims to maintain these familial ties while exercising selective engagement in her public role.

Part-Time Public Figure

Melania's role appears carefully curated, as described by sources from her inner circle. She is willing to embrace the title of first lady but with stipulations that guard her personal and familial commitments. This strategy positions her more as a part-time public figure and a full-time parent.

Such a balancing act is a testament to Melania's focus on autonomy and specificity in her public endeavors. While some traditional responsibilities may be softened or altered, her approach signals deliberate planning. Emphasis remains on selectively participating where her presence is most impactful.

Strategic Selection of Obligations

Melania's ability to seemingly dictate how she participates has reshaped her relationship with official duties. By choosing engagements that align with her priorities, she retains independence while fulfilling her public role.

This approach also illustrates a shift from tradition, embracing a more modern interpretation of the first lady's contributions.

Her choices reflect a broader change, where the first lady operates with flexibility and personal input. As Melania enters this next chapter, the adaptation of her duties reveals her focus on both family and public life, reinforcing her unique stance.