Ivanka Trump makes her feelings very clear about Donald Trump’s presidency days before inauguration

Ivanka Trump has shared that she will not be returning to serve in the White House, prioritizing her children over the “darkness” of political life. Reflecting on her past experiences, she opened up about the personal cost of being involved in politics and her decision to step away.

During Donald Trump’s first term as president, Ivanka held the position of Director of the Office of Economic Initiatives and Entrepreneurship. However, as her father prepares to take office once again, she has clarified her role will be very different this time.

With Trump’s inauguration scheduled for next Monday (January 20), following his victory in the November election against Kamala Harris, Ivanka has announced that she will be stepping away from politics in 2025. Speaking on the Him & Her Show podcast, she discussed her reasons for leaving behind a career in public service and why she has no plans to return despite speculation to the contrary.

She previously served as Director of the Office of Economic Initiatives and Entrepreneurship (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)

“I love policy and impact. I hate politics. And unfortunately, the two are not separable,” Ivanka said. “There is a darkness to that world that I don’t really want to welcome into mine. The main reason I am not going back to serve now is I know the cost, and it’s a price that I’m not willing to make my kids bear.”

Ivanka explained that while she remains supportive of her father’s presidency, she wants to play a different role this time—that of a daughter rather than an advisor. “I think I’m most looking forward to just being able to show up for him as a daughter and be there for him to take his mind off things. To watch a movie with him, or a sports game, and for him to relax and just be himself with me in a loving way,” she shared.

Looking ahead, the mother of three emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between family and meaningful work. “Hopefully I’ll live a life that continues to be impactful, regardless of where I do it,” the 43-year-old added.

Her comments come shortly after her stepmother, Melania Trump, revealed her plans for her role during her husband’s presidency. In an interview with Fox & Friends, the former First Lady stated: “I will be in the White House. And, you know, when I need to be in New York, I will be in New York. When I need to be in Palm Beach, I will be in Palm Beach. But my first priority is, you know, to be a mom, to be a First Lady, to be a wife. And once we are in on Jan. 20, you serve the country.”

Both Ivanka and Melania have outlined how they intend to balance their responsibilities, emphasizing family as a central priority while navigating their respective roles within and outside of the political world.