Former First Lady Melania Trump has broken her silence with a promotional video for her upcoming memoir. The footage sharply criticizes the current administration and defends her husband’s right to free speech. The short clip, released on Sunday, provides a glimpse into Mrs. Trump’s perspective on the nation’s state since leaving the White House.

In the promotional video, Melania Trump, now 54 years old, addresses various issues she views as problematic in the United States today. Speaking directly to the camera, with her words simultaneously appearing on screen for emphasis, she asserts that the results of the 2020 presidential election have fundamentally altered the course of their lives. 

Mrs. Trump elaborates on the widespread effects of this change, pointing to a decline in the overall quality of life for many Americans. She specifically highlights the rising costs of essential items like food and gasoline, which have become increasingly burdensome for households. Furthermore, the former First Lady expresses concerns about deteriorating safety conditions in the country.

Without directly naming President Biden, the former first lady critiques the current administration’s handling of domestic and international challenges. Mrs. Trump also alludes to changes in the global political landscape since her husband left office.

The country has indeed grappled with inflation during President Biden’s tenure. Additionally, significant international conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, have shaped the geopolitical scene since the 2020 election.

Mrs. Trump expresses concern about free speech in the United States, particularly about her husband, former President Donald Trump. “It has become increasingly apparent that there are significant challenges to free speech as demonstrated by efforts to silence my husband,” she said in the rare public statement. 

This statement likely refers to various legal challenges faced by the former president. Mr. Trump, 78, was subject to a gag order during his Manhattan hush money trial, where he was convicted of 34 felony counts in June. Trial Judge Juan Merchan extended parts of the gag order until Trump’s sentencing, citing concerns about the former president’s habit of attacking individuals involved in the case. During the trial, Trump was fined $10,000 for violations of the order and faced threats of jail time if he continued to breach it.

It’s worth noting that Trump’s social media accounts were deactivated shortly after the January 6 riot at the Capitol, though he has since regained access to platforms like X and Facebook.

The promotional video is a key component in a comprehensive marketing strategy for Melania Trump’s upcoming autobiography, “Melania.” The memoir, which bears the straightforward title, is scheduled to hit shelves on October 8, 2024, and eager readers can secure their copies in advance through pre-orders priced at $40. 

During the video clip, Mrs. Trump reveals her personal reasons for writing her book. She explains that as someone who values her privacy yet has frequently found herself under intense public scrutiny and subject to mischaracterization, she feels compelled to set the record straight. The former First Lady emphasizes her sense of duty to present an accurate account of events and clarify any misconceptions that may have arisen during her time in the public eye. This statement showcases her desire to take control of her narrative and provide readers with what she considers to be the truthful version of her experiences.

According to her website, the memoir promises to contain “stories and images never before shared with the public.” The book is marketed as “the powerful and inspiring story of a woman who has defined personal excellence, overcome adversity, and carved her own path.” In addition to the standard $40 version, signed copies are available for $75, and a collector’s edition with bonus photographs is priced at $250.

“Melania” is already topping Amazon’s bestseller list in the US Presidents category. The timing of the book’s release is significant, coming just weeks before the November 5 presidential election, where Donald Trump is making his third bid for the White House, this time facing off against Vice President Kamala Harris.

Mrs. Trump’s public appearances have been relatively rare during this campaign cycle. She has been seen by her husband’s side only a handful of times and notably declined an invitation to speak at the Republican National Convention, breaking with the tradition for candidates’ spouses to address the crowd.

The former First Lady’s decision to speak out now and share her perspective on recent events marks a departure from her usual private stance. As the release date of her memoir approaches, it remains to be seen how the public will receive her words and what impact, if any, they may have on the upcoming election.