Ivanka Trump, the daughter of real estate mogul Donald Trump, played a significant role in the White House during her father’s presidency. As the Assistant to the President and Deputy to the President’s Chief of Staff, she was responsible for overseeing various initiatives, including the Women’s Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment Program, which aimed to advance women’s economic opportunities and entrepreneurship worldwide. Trump’s involvement in the program highlighted her commitment to promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality, a key campaign promise of her father’s to prioritize women’s issues.

As a key player in the National Economic Council, Trump worked closely with Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and NEC Director Gary Cohn, shaping the administration’s economic policies, particularly those related to trade, regulations, and tax reform. Her input was instrumental in developing the Trump Administration’s overall economic agenda, contributing to the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017 and the launch of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) renegotiations.

Ivanka Trump’s public presence and perceived influence often sparked intense media scrutiny, with some outlets portraying her as a “shadow president” or “de facto First Lady.” Critics questioned her legitimacy in the role, citing the possibility of nepotism and the creation of a “pay-to-play” environment. Defenders of Trump argued that her business acumen, education, and entrepreneurial spirit made her a valuable asset, equipped to make informed decisions on economic policy.

In conclusion, Ivanka Trump’s role in the White House was multifaceted and complex, ranging from policy-making to public diplomacy. Her involvement in the Women’s Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment Program, the National Economic Council, and institutional changes within the administration showcased her commitment to promoting economic growth, entrepreneurship, and gender equality. While her influence has been met with both criticism and praise, a closer examination of her role reveals a delicate balance between her business acumen and executive experience.