Decoding the Trump Family: A Guide to America's New Dynasty

By Ana Faguy, BBC News

Originally published on 7 November 2024

Before entering politics, Donald Trump built a multi-million-dollar empire, a brand, and a vast portfolio of luxury real estate.

Now that name and brand have become synonymous with the Republican Party, and multiple members of the Trump family wield influence.

Here are some of the most prominent members of the Trump family.

Donald Trump Jr.

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Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son, has played an increasingly significant role since his father left the White House.

He received widespread media attention during the selection of Trump's running mate, JD Vance, calling Vance a friend. "This is an incredible pick," he said at the Republican National Convention (RNC). "It really is a great choice."

Trump Jr. made no secret of his preference for Ohio Senator Vance—and got his wish.

He was previously married to Vanessa Trump, with whom he has five children. He is now engaged to Kimberly Guilfoyle.

Eric Trump

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Like his brother, Eric Trump—the third child of Donald Trump—is reportedly lobbying his father on issues important to him.

More low-key than his older brother, he remains a dominant figure within the Trump business organization.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner

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Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner were arguably the most influential family members during Trump’s first term in the White House.

The couple married in 2009 and have three children.

During Trump’s presidency, Ivanka frequently represented her father and his administration in public appearances.

Mr. Kushner served as a senior White House adviser from 2017 to 2021.

Tiffany Trump

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She is Donald Trump’s fourth child and the only one with his second wife, Marla Maples.

She did not hold any formal political role during her father’s campaigns or presidency.

She married Michael Boulos in 2022.

Kimberly Guilfoyle

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Kimberly Guilfoyle

Kimberly Guilfoyle has been in a relationship with Donald Trump Jr. for six years and became engaged to him in 2020.

She worked as a Fox News host from 2006 to 2018 before joining a pro-Trump super PAC (political action committee).

Like her fiancé, she has been an outspoken supporter of Trump, especially through frequent television appearances.

She was married to Gavin Newsom, now governor of California, in the early 2000s.

Lara Trump

Image source, EPA

After marrying Eric, Lara emerged as a rising figure within the Trump family, particularly since becoming co-chair of the Republican National Committee earlier this year. She and Eric have two children.

In July, she delivered a passionate speech about her father-in-law at the party convention.

"Our family has faced numerous death threats... living every day knowing someone could be ready to kill your loved ones at any moment, without warning," she said.

Melania Trump

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Melania Trump, the former First Lady, married Donald Trump in 2005.

She maintained a low profile during his presidency and rarely appeared publicly.

She made a surprise appearance at the party convention in July, just days after an attempt was made on her husband’s life.

In her memoir released in October, she revealed her support for abortion rights—a stark contrast to her husband, who championed the overturning of Roe v Wade, ending constitutional protection for abortion.

Barron Trump, 18, is her only child with Donald Trump.

Barron Trump

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Barron Trump has largely stayed out of the spotlight during the campaign.

In May, reports suggested he would serve as one of Florida’s delegates at the July convention, but a day later, his mother said he had declined the offer.

He graduated in May from Oxbridge Academy in Palm Beach, Florida. His father says he is now studying at NYU Stern School of Business in New York.

Kai Trump

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Kai Trump is Donald Trump’s eldest granddaughter and the daughter of Donald Trump Jr. and his former wife, Vanessa Trump.

The 17-year-old golf enthusiast spoke at the Republican convention about her grandfather’s role in her life.

"To me, he’s just a regular grandpa. He sneaks us candy and soda when our parents aren’t looking," she said.