On May 19, 2025, First Lady Melania Trump joined President Donald J. Trump in the White House Rose Garden for the signing of S.146, the “TAKE IT DOWN” Act. This significant bipartisan legislation focuses on safeguarding children and families from online extortion and exploitation through the non-consensual distribution of intimate images and deepfake abuse. This act aligns closely with the First Lady’s BE BEST initiative, signaling a robust commitment to the welfare of America’s youth.
The passage of this bill within the initial 100 days of Trump’s second term underscores a promising ability to achieve legislative goals swiftly. In remarks from the signing ceremony, President Trump expressed gratitude towards Melania for her leadership and dedication to this pressing issue, stating, “America is blessed to have such a dedicated and compassionate First Lady.” He also emphasized the importance of bipartisanship in advancing critical national policies.
First Lady Melania Trump articulated the core values embodied in the “TAKE IT DOWN” Act, emphasizing the importance of protecting the well-being of children, which she believes is vital for the future strength of families and, by extension, the nation. In her address, she pointed out that online platforms can shape perceptions and significantly affect young people’s cognitive development, likening these platforms to “digital candy.”
The bill’s journey began with Melania convening a roundtable on Capitol Hill in March 2025, gathering survivors of non-consensual imagery, their families, advocates, and lawmakers to highlight the widespread impacts and real threats posed by such technology. The President later underscored the act’s significance in his Address to a Joint Session of Congress, illustrating a unified governmental effort.
In her passionate remarks, Melania acknowledged those survivors who bravely advocated for legislative change, including Elliston Berry, who stood out for her courage in sharing her story. She credited bipartisan support, noting contributions from key figures like Speaker Johnson and Senators Cruz and Klobuchar. The First Lady reaffirmed that the BE BEST initiative’s principles are now encapsulated within national law.
As Melania concluded her remarks, she called for continued actions from the Federal Trade Commission and the private sector to reinforce the protections the “TAKE IT DOWN” Act aims to enact. This historic signing marks not only a victory for families but also an ongoing fight against online exploitation in America, ensuring that children’s safety remains a priority in future legislation.