First Lady Melania Trump accompanied President Donald J. Trump at the White House Rose Garden for the signing of S.146, known as the "TAKE IT DOWN" Act. This new bipartisan law aims to protect children and families from online extortion and exploitation related to non-consensual distribution of intimate images and deepfake abuse.
The legislation is a key component of the First Lady's BE BEST initiative and was passed by Congress within the first 100 days of President Trump's second term, marking an early legislative achievement.
First Lady Melania Trump stated, “Today, through the ‘TAKE IT DOWN’ Act, we affirm that the well-being of our children is central to the future of our families and America. I am proud to say that the values of BE BEST will be reflected in the law of the land.”
President Trump praised his wife’s efforts in advancing this legislation: “I want to thank Melania for your leadership on this very important issue. America is blessed to have such a dedicated and compassionate First Lady.” He also noted that working with her demonstrated that bipartisanship remains possible.
In March 2025, Mrs. Trump organized a roundtable discussion on Capitol Hill with survivors, families, advocates for online protection, and Members of Congress to highlight these issues. The President underscored the bill's importance during his Address to a Joint Session of Congress shortly thereafter. Mrs. Trump and her office continued engaging lawmakers throughout key stages of its legislative journey.
The signing ceremony included survivors, their families, Members of Congress, Cabinet officials, and advocates who played roles in passing this significant legislation.
Mrs. Trump's prepared remarks highlighted that this act represents progress in protecting young Americans from non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII) abuse facilitated by technology like artificial intelligence and social media.
She acknowledged Elliston Berry's courage in advocating for change despite personal risks: "Elliston Berry stood boldly for change—despite the risks posed to her and her family by speaking out."
The First Lady thanked several bipartisan congressional members for their support: Speaker Johnson, Senator Cruz, Senator Klobuchar, Congresswoman Salazar, Congresswoman Dean, and Congressman Guthrie.
Melania Trump reiterated her commitment through BE BEST to enhance children's well-being by fostering kindness and ensuring safer online environments: "As First Lady...the values of BE BEST will be reflected in the law."
Expressing gratitude towards President Trump’s involvement she concluded saying: "His signature on this new law is not where our work ends...we look to Federal Trade Commission & private sector now."
###
