First Lady Melania Trump was awarded the Patriot of the Year honor at Fox Nation’s seventh annual awards ceremony held on Thursday night, November 6, 2025. The recognition was met with significant criticism and ridicule on social media, with many viewers questioning her eligibility for the accolade.
Even Fox’s loyal viewers expressed dissatisfaction with the award, taking to X to label it as a misguided gesture. One user remarked that Melania receiving the award was akin to giving her a participation trophy. Another commented that the event was yet another awards show filled with superficial patriotism, highlighting that genuine sacrifice does not require a spotlight or sponsorship.
Numerous social media users questioned the first lady’s achievements. “I really would like to see her list of accomplishments that qualified her as ‘Patriot of the Year.’ This is laughable! I am serious! What has she done?” one individual wrote. Several users questioned her qualifications for such a distinction, with one asking what she had done to notably benefit American citizens, considering her influence.
Another X user quipped, “Giving Melania Patriot of the Year is like giving me Athlete of the Year for owning running shoes.” Some called the award a sham and speculated whether Fox News created it specifically for the Trump family. One critic suggested that Fox had established this award solely to present it to Melania.
Many social media users highlighted the first lady’s low visibility during her husband’s second term. One person noted she was the Patriot of the Year for being largely unseen, describing it as an easy victory. Another commented on her absence from the White House for much of the year. A critic remarked they could not remember the last time they had even seen the first lady.
The ceremony occurred at the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Brookville, New York, and was hosted by Fox News personality Sean Hannity. Hannity described Melania as someone who epitomizes the kind of quiet courage that enhances the nation and commended her for redefining the role of America’s first lady.
During her acceptance speech, the first lady made a remark that drew an awkward reaction from the audience. She told the crowd she knows a little about challenging convention, eliciting scattered laughter and hesitant responses from the audience. It was unclear what precisely she meant with the comment.
The first lady’s speech focused on American innovation and the nation’s founding principles. She praised American visionaries and innovators who embrace originality, urging the audience to adopt an ambitious mindset and celebrate those who think differently. She lauded the rebellious founders who resisted British rule and emphasized that innovation is a form of patriotism.
Social media critics also noted the timing of honoring an immigrant while the Trump administration faces criticism over immigration policies. One X user highlighted the irony of celebrating an immigrant while other legal immigrants face deportation without due process. Another wrote that only Trump is permitted to win, labeling it a farce along with the entire Trump family and presidency.
Melania Trump has been actively involved in international advocacy for children. Her efforts include working to reunite Ukrainian children with their families after abductions during the conflict with Russia. In October, she stated that her discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin helped reunite eight Ukrainian children with their families. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the first lady for highlighting the issue during his visit to the White House. Zelenskyy conveyed his gratitude to the first lady through a letter from his wife, presented to Trump.
She also supported the Take it Down Act, which prohibits the distribution of non-consensual intimate imagery and aims to protect children and families from online exploitation and the spread of sexual deepfakes. She joined the president at the May signing of the bill as part of her broader efforts to safeguard children.
The first lady secured a $25 million investment in President Donald Trump’s fiscal year 2026 budget to provide housing and support for youth transitioning out of foster care. In a White House statement, she stated that this is another essential measure that ensures the safety, welfare, and autonomy of those in the foster community.
The Patriot of the Year award was given to Donald Trump in 2024 at the Fox Nation Patriot Awards. Critics pointed out that the award seemed to favor the Trump family, questioning whether the honors were legitimate or merely designed to benefit one family.
The ceremony also featured other awards, including the inaugural Charlie Kirk Legacy Award, presented to Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The Most Valuable Patriot Award was presented to Alexa Anderson and Reese Eckard for their advocacy in fighting for fairness in women’s sports. The Young Patriot Award was presented to 13-year-old Devarjaye Daniel for his bravery in battling cancer.
