The Next President: Ivanka Trump?
The Trump family has been a dominating force in American politics since 2016, reshaping the Republican Party and influencing political discourse nationwide. As Donald Trump continues to exert his influence over the GOP, speculation about the future of his children, particularly Ivanka Trump, remains a topic of interest. Once a senior advisor in her father’s administration, Ivanka was seen as a poised and pragmatic figure, appealing to moderates and women voters. However, in recent years, she has distanced herself from politics, choosing a quieter life away from the public eye.
Despite this, many political observers continue to wonder: Could Ivanka Trump eventually run for president? Does she have the political capital and personal ambition to return to Washington? Or has she permanently left politics behind?
Ivanka Trump’s Political Rise
Ivanka Trump was a key figure in her father’s 2016 presidential campaign, helping shape his appeal to suburban women and younger voters. A former business executive and model, Ivanka brought a polished, modern image to the Trump campaign, contrasting with her father’s brash and unconventional style.
Following Donald Trump’s victory, Ivanka took on a formal role in his administration as a senior advisor, focusing on issues such as women’s economic empowerment, job creation, and paid family leave. During her tenure, she played a prominent role in shaping workforce initiatives and advocating for policies aimed at supporting working families.
Unlike her brothers, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump—who fully embraced the Trumpian, hard-right style of politics—Ivanka sought to position herself as a measured and pragmatic figure. She built relationships with international leaders, participated in economic summits, and helped broker initiatives like the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative. Many believed she was carefully crafting a political brand that could one day stand on its own.
However, her time in the White House was not without controversy. Critics accused her of using her position to benefit her brand, particularly in China, where she received trademarks for her fashion line while serving in the administration. Others felt she did little to temper her father’s most controversial policies, choosing instead to remain publicly supportive of his presidency.
The Decision to Step Away from Politics
As Donald Trump’s presidency came to an end in 2021, speculation grew over whether Ivanka would continue in politics. Many believed she could run for a Senate seat in Florida or even prepare for a future presidential bid. However, after her father’s tumultuous departure from the White House and the events surrounding January 6, 2021, Ivanka appeared to retreat from the political world.
In November 2022, as Donald Trump announced his 2024 presidential campaign, Ivanka made a surprising announcement of her own: she would not be involved. In a statement, she said:
“I love my father very much. This time around, I am choosing to prioritize my young children and the private life we are creating as a family. I do not plan to be involved in politics.”
This marked a stark departure from her previous role as one of Trump’s closest political allies. Sources close to Ivanka indicated that she had grown tired of the political chaos surrounding her father and wanted to focus on her family. Her husband, Jared Kushner, who also played a major role in the Trump administration, similarly stepped back from politics.
A Permanent Exit or a Temporary Retreat?
While Ivanka has publicly distanced herself from politics, the question remains: Could she return?
Political dynasties have long played a role in American history. The Bush, Clinton, and Kennedy families all saw multiple generations take on political leadership. Given the continued power of the Trump name within the Republican Party, it is not impossible that Ivanka could make a future run for office—if she chooses to.
Some political strategists believe that Ivanka remains a compelling figure for a potential future campaign. Unlike her father, who thrives on controversy and confrontation, she has cultivated a more diplomatic and polished image. If the Republican Party ever shifts away from Trump’s more extreme rhetoric, Ivanka could position herself as a moderate conservative who appeals to suburban voters, independents, and women—groups that the GOP has struggled to win over in recent elections.
Others argue that Ivanka’s political ambitions were always tied to her father’s presidency. Without his direct influence, she lacks the grassroots support and populist appeal needed to win over Trump’s base. Additionally, her silence on major political issues in recent years suggests she may have truly lost interest in public service.
The Role of the Trump Brand
Even if Ivanka never runs for office, the Trump name will likely remain central to Republican politics for years to come. Donald Trump Jr. has taken on a more prominent role as a right-wing firebrand, while Eric Trump remains involved in the family’s business and political ventures. Barron Trump, the youngest of Donald Trump’s children, has largely remained out of the public eye, but speculation about his future involvement in politics has already begun.
If Ivanka ever chooses to return, she would likely face challenges. Many in the Republican Party view her as too moderate, while Democrats remain deeply skeptical of anyone connected to the Trump administration. However, the political landscape is always shifting, and if the right opportunity arises, a comeback is never out of the question.
A Future in Politics?
As of now, Ivanka Trump appears content with her life outside of politics. She has relocated to Florida, focusing on her family and business ventures rather than political campaigns. Her attendance at her father’s 2025 inauguration was a show of support but did not indicate any desire to reenter the political arena.
That being said, in American politics, comebacks are common, and ambitions can change over time. While she may have stepped away for now, Ivanka Trump remains a figure who could one day seek office—whether in Congress, as a governor, or even as a future presidential candidate.
For now, the idea of Ivanka Trump as the next president remains speculative. But if history has shown anything, it’s that the Trump family’s influence on American politics is far from over.