Melania Trump’s appearance at a Florida polling station on Tuesday has sparked wild conspiracy theories online.
The former First Lady accompanied her husband Donald Trump to cast their votes in West Palm Beach, but her choice to wear large sunglasses indoors raised eyebrows.
Social media users speculated that a body double had been sent in her place, with some claiming the woman beside Trump was “obviously not Melania”.
The 54-year-old’s subdued style, featuring a floor-length black-and-white polka dot dress from Christian Dior, also drew attention. Body language expert Judi James noted that Melania’s look was markedly different from her past high-visibility outfits as First Lady.
Former President Donald Trump, flanked by former first lady Melania Trump
Reuters
The Trumps cast their votes in the election in Florida
Reutera
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Several social media users questioned Melania’s identity, with one X user writing: “Melania’s been wearing sunglasses inside all day today.”
Another claimed: “That’s the double, not Melania, easy to see when she smiles and that’s what the glasses are for.”
The former First Lady’s outfit consisted of a Christian Dior dress, sky-high black heels, and large sunglasses. She spoke briefly to reporters, stating she felt “very good”.
Body language expert Judi James described Melania’s look as “very subdued” compared to her usual style.
She told the Mirror: “Her smile seems almost compensatory here as Trump’s facial expression is rather solemn and he graciously and gallantly motions for her to walk in first.”
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The Trumps at Mandel Recreation Center on Election Day in Palm Beach, Florida
Reuters
Despite the wild theories, evidence emerged to debunk the body double claims.
Melania eventually removed her sunglasses, allowing photographers to capture her full face.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump expressed confidence in the election results.
He told reporters: “I feel very confident, we went in with a very big lead today, we Republicans have shown up in force so we will see how it turns out.”
Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump, accompanied by former U.S. first lady Melania Trump
Reuters
Trump also addressed concerns about potential unrest, stating: “If it’s a fair election, I’d be the first one to acknowledge.”
He dismissed worries about violence from his supporters, saying: “My supporters are not violent people.”
Trump has since won two of the seven crucial swing states, with both North Carolina and Georgia projected to declare for him.