The first lady is pushing to make ‘revenge porn’ and deepfake sex images a federal crime
Melania Trump has made a rare appearance to urge lawmakers to crack down on so-called ‘revenge porn’ by making it a federal crime.
Melania Trump Pushes for Bipartisan Bill to Combat AI-Generated and Non-Consensual Pornography
First Lady Melania Trump took to Capitol Hill on Monday (March 3) to advocate for a groundbreaking bipartisan bill aimed at criminalizing the spread of non-consensual pornography and AI-generated intimate images.
At 54 years old, the former model and longtime advocate for online safety warned that artificial intelligence is being weaponized to create disturbing ‘deepfake’ pornography, turning the internet into a toxic and dangerous space—especially for young people.
Speaking before the panel in her first public appearance in the new Trump administration, Melania delivered an emotional plea:
“It’s heartbreaking to witness some teens, especially girls, grappling with the overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content, like deepfakes.”
The proposed ‘Take It Down’ bill, already passed in the Senate with rare bipartisan support, was spearheaded by Republican Ted Cruz (Texas) and backed by Democrat Amy Klobuchar (Minnesota). If passed in the House of Representatives, the bill would:
✅ Make it a federal crime to create or share AI-generated pornographic images without consent
✅ Hold tech companies accountable, requiring them to remove such content within 48 hours
Melania reinforced the urgency of protecting young people, stating:
“In an era where digital interactions are integral to daily life, it is imperative that we safeguard children from mean-spirited and hurtful online behavior.”
With growing political momentum and the First Lady’s high-profile endorsement, the bill is now one step closer to becoming law—one that could reshape the fight against AI-driven exploitation.
Melania Trump Urges Congress to Pass ‘Take It Down’ Act, Calls for Bipartisan Unity
If passed, the ‘Take It Down’ Act would require websites and social media platforms to establish a ‘notice and takedown’ system, ensuring flagged non-consensual explicit images—whether real or AI-generated—are removed within 48 hours, according to the New York Post.
But it’s not just about removal. Perpetrators who share such material without consent could face severe consequences:
🔹 Up to three years in prison if the victim is a minor
🔹 Up to two years behind bars if the victim is 18 or older
During her address, First Lady Melania Trump emphasized the need for accountability and responsibility in the digital age, stating:
“By advocating this bill, Congress can take an important step towards ensuring accountability and fostering responsible online behavior. The Take It Down Act represents our first step towards justice, healing, and unity.”
However, the mom-of-one didn’t hold back when it came to criticizing Democrats for their lack of public support. While praising Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) for working across the aisle, she noted a glaring absence from other Democratic leaders.
“I was heartened to learn that Senator Cruz and Senator Klobuchar united to prioritize this fundamental matter,” she said. “I must admit, however, I expected to see more Democratic leaders with us here today to address this serious issue. Surely, as adults, we can prioritize American children ahead of partisan politics.”
With momentum growing and the First Lady making an impassioned case, all eyes are now on Congress to decide whether this bill will mark a new era in online accountability and child protection.
Senator Cruz and Lawmakers Push for ‘Take It Down’ Act to Combat AI-Generated Exploitation
At the roundtable, Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), a father of two daughters, underscored the devastating impact of non-consensual explicit images:
“If you’re a victim of revenge porn or AI-generated explicit imagery, your life changes forever. Disturbingly, many of these victims are teenagers at American high schools.”
Democratic Representative Ro Khanna (CA), who represents Silicon Valley, echoed the urgency of striking a balance between technological advancements and protection:
“America should lead in making sure that technology protects kids and protects people. And I think this bill, as you’ve crafted it, Senator Cruz, balances the free-speech concerns with the protections.”
The panel also heard harrowing testimonies from victims of deepfake pornography—ranging from schoolchildren to adults—as the dangers of AI exploitation continue to rise.
High-Profile Cases Amplify the Debate
Public outrage over AI-generated fake nudes reached new heights last year when pop icon Taylor Swift became one of the most high-profile victims. The incident reignited calls for stricter online regulations, proving that no one—not even global superstars—is immune to digital violations.
Congressional Action & First Lady’s Advocacy
According to Politico, House Energy and Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie has committed to scheduling a hearing on the bill within weeks, a promising sign for those pushing for immediate action.
The campaign comes as First Lady Melania Trump, a Slovenian-born former model, steps back into the public eye to champion issues close to her heart. While she typically avoids the spotlight, she has previously advocated for foster-care reform and led the ‘Be Best’ initiative, which aimed to combat cyberbullying and online exploitation.
Now, with bipartisan momentum building, all eyes are on Congress to take the next step in protecting victims of AI-generated abuse and holding tech platforms accountable.
