Melania Trump has focused on the well-being of children

Editor:

While it's true first ladies are unelected, comparing their initiatives overlooks important context.  Eleanor Roosevelt, Lady Bird Johnson, Betty Ford, and Laura Bush chose public advocacy, and that's commendable.  Melania Trump launched Be Best, focusing on children's well-being, online safety, and opioid awareness.  She visited hospitals and schools, met with experts, and kept a lower profile while prioritizing family.

The $18 million movie payment is a personal business matter unrelated to her official role.  Different first ladies serve differently; none are required to launch national programs.  Judging one against another based on publicity misses the point of personal choice in an unelected position.

Jennifer Hutchison

Gunnison