President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump captivated audiences during the Commander-in-Chief Ball in Washington, D.C., as part of the 2025 inaugural celebrations. The couple’s first dance, performed against the backdrop of Elvis Presley’s “An American Trilogy,” was met with applause from attendees. Still, it also sparked public social media discussion about their interactions on stage.
Melania Trump wore a striking black-and-white strapless gown designed by Hervé Pierre, which she paired with an elegant choker and brooch. Donald Trump joined her on stage in a classic tuxedo for the highly anticipated moment. Lip-reading experts revealed an exchange between the pair, where Melania said, “I got you,” to which the President responded, “We’ll see.” Observers noted their performance’s reserved yet intimate nature, which contrasted with the lively energy of the evening.
Mark Bowden reported on a moment during the dance, describing how Melania flicked her head back—likely to move hair from her face—creating an appearance of sudden tension. Bowden noted, “Trump himself seems to misread the gesture,” instinctively pulling back before leaning in, seemingly trying to reestablish a sense of connection.
During their dance, Melania, 54, placed a formal, somewhat stiff hand on Donald Trump’s shoulder while gazing off into the distance. They were joined on stage by Ivanka Trump, who danced alongside her husband, Jared Kushner, Vice President J.D. Vance, and his wife, Usha. In a particularly striking moment, Donald Trump later danced to “YMCA” while holding a sword, drawing laughter even from Melania, who found the scene unexpectedly amusing.
The Commander-in-Chief Ball featured performances by several prominent artists, including Rascal Flatts, Kid Rock, and Parker McCollum. In addition to addressing attendees, Trump made a video call to U.S. service members stationed in South Korea, thanking them for their dedication. A traditional moment from the evening saw the president cutting a ceremonial cake with a sword, symbolizing the start of the inaugural festivities.
The event also continued speculation surrounding the dynamics of the First Couple’s public appearances. At the inauguration, Melania’s wide-brimmed hat obstructed a direct kiss between the two, resulting in an “air kiss.” Although she later removed the hat, critics and supporters alike analyzed their interactions, with some citing her reserved expressions as an indication of her feelings. These moments added another layer to the public fascination with their relationship.
The celebrations continued with the Liberty Ball, where the couple danced again, joined by their family members. President Trump addressed the audience, stating his commitment to “swiftly advancing the nation’s interests.” The evening also included remarks reflecting his ambitions for the term ahead, blending formality with moments of levity.
Another evening highlight was the Starlight Ball, which featured a performance by Gavin DeGraw. High-profile attendees included boxers Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, who shared lighthearted social media posts, and actor Jon Voight, who the president recently appointed as a “Special Ambassador to Hollywood.” These celebrity appearances underscored the event’s blend of entertainment and political significance.
Jake Paul, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump during the election campaign, attended the inauguration earlier in the day at the Capitol Rotunda in Washington, accompanied by his brother Logan and UFC star Conor McGregor. Paul reflected on the event: “Today is about togetherness in every way. Fists down, unity up.” He praised Trump’s speech, stating that those who oppose him “don’t want what’s best for this country and the world.”
Throughout the night, Trump expressed gratitude to those in attendance, emphasizing the significance of the celebrations. He also reflected on the importance of service members and their sacrifices, further cementing the patriotic tone of the evening. Despite the festive atmosphere, the interactions between the president and first lady remained a focal point for public scrutiny, as their every move continued to attract attention.
The inaugural balls, a tradition dating back to 1809 with President James Madison, serve as both a celebration of the new administration and a moment to connect with the American public. This year’s events upheld that legacy, combining time-honored formalities with contemporary elements. The 2025 inaugural celebrations offered insight into the First Couple’s dynamic while providing a platform for Trump to reaffirm his vision for the nation.