Trump Women's Affiliation with Mar-a-Lago Unveiled
Women in the orbit of U.S. President Donald Trump have undergone a significant transformation in their appearance, a phenomenon referred to as the "Trumpification" by The New York Times. This transformation is characterized by a sun-kissed complexion, augmented lips, smooth complexions, black eyeliner, false lashes, pronounced eyebrows, long, sometimes artificially extended hair parted in the middle, and a slender, typically Caucasian figure. These women, who include Homeland Security Minister Kristi Noem, daughter-in-law Lara Trump, and former fiancée of Trump's son Don Jr., Kimberly Guilfoyle, have radically changed their appearances in recent years.
The "Mar-a-Lago Face" or "Maga Look" — named after Trump's estate in Florida and his campaign slogan "Make America Great Again" — has gained attention for its prevalence among women closely associated with the President. The appearance of these women serves a political purpose beyond mere aesthetics, representing a specific, conservative ideal.
Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez explains that the prevailing image of women in Trump's administration reflects the values of certain patriarchal evangelical circles. These circles, which have gained more influence under Trump's presidency, combine a dogmatic interpretation of Christian faith with a nationalist vision of America. In the extreme parts of this movement, misogyny is evident, with demands to deprive women of the right to vote and limit them to their role as mothers.
While women occupy public positions in this milieu, they are expected to adhere to strict conditions. Femininity is defined primarily through exterior presentation and political loyalty, serving as a counterpoint to the demonstratively masculine toughness. This political statement, made through outer appearance, makes women effective public faces for the authoritarian project. High-profile figures like Minister Noem and spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt use makeup, cosmetic surgery, and deliberately feminine clothing to showcase their alignment with the system, often accompanied by visible Christian symbols.
The development of this form of right-wing femininity has been evolving in conservative circles for some time, with Sarah Palin being one of the first women to embody it on a national stage. During her vice presidential campaign in 2008, she was a former beauty queen in vibrant outfits with highly styled hair, while also being ruthless in attacking political opponents.
In the world of social media, where everyone can reach an audience, this type of confident defense of traditional gender roles and visibility have become important. Trump's attention may also contribute to this, with his wife Melania representing a more classic, yet still traditional, image of femininity.
Yet, there are exceptions to this trend. Susie Wiles, one of the most powerful women in Trump's circle, has gray hair, subtle makeup, and understated pantsuits. She prefers to stay behind the scenes, contrasting with other women in Trump's circle who seek maximum attention and reach.
The rest of Trump's team, both male and female, aim for maximum visibility and influence. The New York Times observes that their recognition by outsiders as part of the conservative team is a significant factor in their success, enhancing their visibility on social media and acting as a catalyst for identification. Trump himself seems to appreciate this, recently stating, "We've made the presidency hot."
Source: ntv.de, Julia Naue and Luzia Geier, dpa
- The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive regarding the political and public image of women in Trump's administration, a topic that extends beyond war-and-conflicts, general-news, crime-and-justice, accidents, and entertainment.
- This specific form of right-wing femininity, known as the "Trumpification," "Mar-a-Lago Face," or "Maga Look," has gained attention not only in politics but also in policy-and-legislation, with celebrities and public figures serving as prime examples.
- War-and-conflicts, crime-and-justice, and accidents may take the spotlight, but the transformation and appearance of women in Trump's inner circle are policy-and-legislation issues in their own right, given the political message they convey.
- In car-accidents or crime-and-justice stories, the focus is often on physical appearance as a result of the incident. However, in the case of this conservative, right-wing femininity, appearance is a deliberate choice, a strategy for maximum visibility and influence.
- In line with the "Make America Great Again" slogan, this form of femininity exhibits a certain level of confidence and traditional values, which has been embraced not only by politicians but also by the general public in the world of social media.
