Trump Wishes Melania A Happy Birthday From Trial: ‘It Would Be Nice To Be With Her’

From over 1,200 miles away, former President Donald Trump wished his wife Melania a very happy birthday, appearing in good spirits before the fourth day of his hush money trial in Manhattan.

The Republican made his characteristic stop before reporters outside of the courtroom and addressed the scrum for roughly two minutes, starting first with his well wishes to the former first lady.

“I wanna start by wishing my wife Melania a very happy birthday. It would be be nice to be with her, but I’m at a courthouse for a rigged trial,” said Trump as he shook his head. “But we’re doing very well in this rigged trial, and everybody knows it.”

“Yesterday was a big day, but I do have to begin by wishing Melania happy birthday. She’s in Florida. I’ll be going there this evening after this case finishes up,” he added.

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President Trump’s summation of his trial has been echoed by Melania, who has called it a “disgrace,” equating it with “election interference” according to Newsweek.

As an extension of her husband, Melania, 54, has supported Trump’s presidential campaign both formally and at home. Last week she was on hand for a fundraiser with the Log Cabin Republicans at Mar-a-Lago that reportedly raised over $1 million, and two weeks prior she she was spotted stealing the show at a ceremony welcoming Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to a reception. She has also provided the former president with advice about whom he might select as a running mate.

At home, aides credit Melania with providing a grounding force to Trump that they have labeled his “secret weapon.” She insists that he sit with her and their son Barron for breakfast and that he refrain from watching too much cable news. The stability has helped keep Trump “calm and focused” amid a “hellish” period, said one source.

“Friends whisper these last few weeks have been hard on Trump, and although he always presents a tough front, these constant legal assaults are affecting his day-to-day life,” said one source close to the power couple. “Melania’s even better than his regular golf games at keeping his temper in check. She provides a peaceful life for him when he needs it.”

In January President Trump returned the support, comforting Melania after the death of her mother Amalija Knavs. She delivered a eulogy at the matriarch’s funeral later that month.

“Her nurturing spirit had no limits, creating a legacy that will last for generations,” she said of the love her mother had for her grandson, Baron, “illuminating his world with love, tender care, and unwavering devotion.”