James also said that Melania’s body language could have been “pre-arranged” to present her as a “serious heavyweight with some powerful message,” rather than displaying a more empathetic persona typical of a traditional First Lady.

If Vance had any issues with the coldness, she didn’t seem to express them in the gathering at the time,  and looked content with having done her job.

Social Media Users Slammed The First Lady for Appearing Cold Toward Usha Vance

Online, many netizens weren’t pleased with Melania’s coldness toward Usha and said so in many words.

“Boy, what an ice b-tch! Doesn’t even acknowledge Usha. And I’m sure no one in the audience was able to understand a word she said. Such an empty and cold soul,” a user commented.

Meanwhile, Usha was praised for maintaining a consistent smile and facing forward while on stage, including during her introduction of Melania.

“Usha, your beautiful smile shows your genuine love and friendship with Melania. You’re a lovely partner for JD, and we love your commitment to [the] US and your family, a user said.

“Usha Vance is Elegant and classy, and beautiful and kind and very special,” another individual commented.

All About Melania Trump’s Speech

At the luncheon event, Melania began her speech by sharing her gratitude to the attendees for the privilege of taking part in the tradition, before going on to discuss her work with children.

“America’s children are our moral equals. As parents and leaders, it is our ethical obligation to ensure our kids develop emotionally and physically within a safe environment,” the First Lady said.

She particularly pointed to working with members of the Ways and Means Committee to advance legislation aimed at protecting the foster care community, adding that it would be a major milestone for her if it were introduced into law.

“When passed, this will mark the second piece of legislation I have championed for the protection of America’s next generation,” she said.

The First Lady Called On Like-Minded People To Join Her Mission

During Her Speech, Melania went on to list other initiatives focused on benefiting children.

These included Fostering the Future, the Take It Down Act, and other charitable efforts such as the reunification of Ukrainian and Russian refugee children with their families.

Rounding out the speech, the first lady called on like-minded individuals to join her in her mission.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as First Lady, but understand that my persistence alone is not enough. Together, we can change people’s lives for the better,” Melania concluded.

The Independent has contacted ABC and Kimmel’s representatives for comment.

It comes months after Jimmy Kimmel Live! was taken off air in September last year, over his controversial remarks about right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk’s killing.

Before the suspension was lifted, big names in Hollywood and politics — including former President Barack Obama — quickly condemned the move and raised concerns about free speech.

In his emotional return to the show, Kimmel said he accepted that some people felt his remarks about Kirk’s death had been “ill-timed or unclear or maybe both,” adding: “I get why you’re upset.”

Just three months after his late night return, Kimmel and ABC agreed to a contract extension, taking the show through May 2027.

In recent months, Kimmel and the president have regularly exchanged jabs, with the latter describing the TV show host as a “loser” on Fox News’ The Five in March.​

“He gets no ratings, none,” Donald said. “He’s got no talent.”

Many of the president’s supporters have blasted Kimmel on X over his Melania joke, even though it took place days before the shooting.

On X, right-wing political commentator Benny Johnson suggested that ABC should “issue a full on-air apology” from the host or have their broadcasting license “revoked.”

Larry O’Connor, editor of conservative outlet Townhall, labeled Kimmel a “broken man” and wrote on X, “@disney, you have a problem.”