On May 20, 2025, during the annual Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day event at the White House, President Donald Trump was revealed to have a fondness for certain sweet treats. Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, shared that his favorites include pink Starbursts and Tootsie Rolls. This information came to light during a special briefing for the children of reporters who cover the White House, highlighting the fun, educational aspects of the day.
In addition to participating in the activities organized at the White House, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump held their separate events for the children. During the briefing, when a child inquired about Trump's daily candy consumption, Leavitt described it as a "good amount" and elaborated that he also enjoys a "big, beautiful steak," ice cream sundaes topped with chocolate sauce, and burgers and fries from McDonald's. These revelations about the president's palate generated a lighthearted atmosphere among the attendees.
Throughout the session, children posed a variety of questions. While some inquiries delved into administration policies, such as border security and climate change, many others centered on Trump’s personal preferences, with the focus shifting back to food. Leavitt appeared caught off guard when a child asked who Trump’s favorite soccer player is and which of his five adult children he loves the most. Responding with humor, she noted the controversial nature of the question, opting not to answer directly, but affirmed that the president loves all his children very much.
Meanwhile, First Lady Melania Trump engaged with a group of children as they decorated wooden American flags in the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden on the South Lawn. Using a glue stick, she enthusiastically attached two silver glittery stars to her flag. Throughout the activity, she praised the children for their artistic efforts, calling their creations "beautiful."
Earlier that day, President Trump visited Capitol Hill, aiming to garner support from House Republican lawmakers for a tax cuts and spending bill he desired Congress to pass. Although a public event involving children was scheduled to take place on the South Lawn following his return, the White House later opted to forgo media coverage. However, an aide did share on social media a clip of the president engaging with some children outside the Executive Mansion, showcasing another lighter moment of the day.
This event illustrated a unique intersection of presidential duties and family-friendly engagement, as children were given the opportunity to interact with their leaders in a casual and informal setting, fostering connections between the young participants and the overarching political landscape.
