"Cannot Bring the Darkness of the Political World Into My Life"
"Don't Want to Miss Even the Small Moments With My Children"
"I hate politics."
Ivanka Trump (44), the eldest daughter of President-elect Donald Trump, has expressed her intention to keep a distance from politics during the second Trump administration. Ivanka had established a strong presence during the first Trump term, serving as a senior advisor at the White House and even taking on the role of a 'First Lady.'
On the 14th (local time), Ivanka appeared on the podcast "Him & Her Show" and said, "I love policy and influence, but I hate politics," adding, "Unfortunately, the two are inseparable."
She continued, "Politics is a dark and negative business," and said, "Some people love the gladiatorial aspect of that world, the fighting, but I am not that kind of person." She added, "I did not want to bring the darkness of the political world into my own world." This marked her clear stance of not engaging in politics during the second Trump term.
When asked if there was any backlash for deciding not to return to the White House, Ivanka replied, "Making decisions based on core values is really easy," and said, "My highest and core value is family." She explained, "I did my best during the first Trump term," and added, "I think I was there for my children during really important moments, but going forward, I don’t want to miss even the small moments." She further stated, "The biggest reason I am not returning to the White House now is because I know what the cost is. I don’t want my children to pay that price."
Ivanka has three children with her husband Jared Kushner. The couple served as senior advisors in the first Trump administration, assisting the president. At that time, Ivanka was also regarded as fulfilling the de facto role of First Lady, substituting for Melania Trump, who tended to avoid public activities. However, during this election, Ivanka did not participate in the Trump campaign, showing a distance from the political sphere, which drew attention to the background of this decision.
Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, the president-elect’s second son, mentioned in an interview with the New York Post, "They accomplished tremendous things during the first term, but as a family, it was a really tough time. It was very hard to watch from the sidelines."
However, some speculate that although Ivanka has stepped back from politics, she will continue to play a key advisory role. Last month, CNN reported, citing sources close to Ivanka, that she will continue to provide unofficial advice to President-elect Trump.
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