Melania Trump missing from Donald Trump's Christmas family photo. Know why

Concerns arose among fans when Melania Trump was noticeably absent from the family's 2023 Christmas photo. The image featured Donald Trump, his children, and their partners posing in front of a grand tree in a spacious room, all elegantly dressed in suits and formal attire. The absence of the former First Lady prompted speculation.

Why was Melania Trumpabsent?

Sources now reveal that Melania Trumpwas absent as she was taking care ofher ailing mother during the holiday season. A spokesperson mentioned to Fox News Digital that Melania,spent Christmas with her mother, Amalija Knavs, who is reportedly unwell and receiving treatment.The family Christmas photo was taken during a gathering at the Mar-a-Lago estate.

Recent reports had suggested that Melania was planning to increase her public appearances in anticipation of Donald Trump's potential 2024 election campaign.

Insiders at Mar-a-Lago, as cited by Fox News Digital mentionedan agreement between Melania and Trump to engage in more top-tier diplomatic appearances in the coming year.

Reports also suggest that Melania has also been actively involved in assisting her son, Barron Trump, in the college search process.

Also watch |More trouble for Trump Presidential bid; Ghosts of Capitol Hill riots haunt Trump

Maine blocks Trump from presidential primary ballot

Meanwhile, in a setback to former President Donald Trump, the state of Mainedecided to exclude him from the upcoming US presidential primary election, following a similar move by Colorado. Trump is disqualified over alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, with Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows linking him to inciting insurrection.

(With inputs from agencies)