First lady Melania Trump drew laughter from military mothers during a White House Mother's Day event after praising her husband, President Donald Trump, for his empathy and leadership. Melania's White House speech The crowd laughed after Melania Trump said husband Donald Trump's empathy 'transcends the role.' By: MEGA Speaking in the East Room of the White House, Melania honored military mothers while introducing the president. The crowd reacted after she described him as compassionate.