Barron Trump, the youngest son of Donald Trump, once again finds himself in the spotlight as his father was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on January 20. The 18-year-old attended the inauguration with his family, though it’s likely he’ll soon return to his studies, as he recently began college.

Barron Trump’s Growing Public Image

Barron, often compared to his father, has become a topic of public discussion for various reasons over the years. While his striking height usually garners the most attention, this time, people were focused on something else during the inauguration—his appearance, particularly a noticeable tan that some have compared to his father’s signature orange hue.

Life After the White House

Having lived at the White House during his father’s first term, Barron now resides at Trump Tower while attending New York University’s Stern Business School. Unlike most college students, Barron won’t experience dorm life. According to sources, Melania Trump has chosen to stay close to her son, frequently spending time in New York to support him.

“Living in a dorm in a college town isn’t in the stars for him at this point,” a source told People Magazine. “Melania feels it’s better to be around him as much as possible.”

Melania, in a Fox News interview, explained her parenting philosophy: “As children, we have them till they are 18, 19 years old. We teach them, we guide them, and then we give them the wings to fly. I always respect Barron’s yes and no, and what he likes to do, where he would like to be.”

Concerns for Barron’s safety in light of his father’s return to the presidency have also been a factor in keeping him close. The Secret Service continues to provide protection for Barron during his time in college.

Barron Trump on Inauguration Day

Barron was a key figure at his father’s inauguration, skipping any college commitments to attend the ceremony and subsequent celebrations. During his speech, Donald Trump praised his son, referring to him as instrumental in winning the youth vote:

“He knew the youth vote. You know, we won the youth vote by 36 points,” Trump said. “He was saying, ‘Dad, you’ve got to go out and do this and that.’ He respects them all, he understood it very well.”

Barron also garnered praise for his interaction with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris during the event. Social media erupted with speculation after a video of Barron greeting Biden went viral, showing Biden’s expression shifting from a smile to something more somber. Body language expert Judi James suggested this was likely misinterpreted, explaining that Barron’s confidence and charisma may have led to exaggerated assumptions about their brief exchange.