First Lady Melania Trump promotes AI and robots in North Carolina

First Lady Melania Trump is pushing kids to build robots and embrace AI during a rare public stop at a school in North Carolina. This move comes as terrifying fears about the technology grip the nation. She travels officially to promote community resiliency and education tech in American schools. The first lady announced a gift of AI development kits for eager students gathered there. 'Dream big and use these AI tools to build something never created before,' she told them. 'Maybe one of you will create the next great robot.' And if you do, make sure you bring it to the White House to show me!'

Her remarks about AI clash with a growing movement for greater regulations on the emerging technology. Many fear it could destroy the world by 2030. But President Trump has slapped down attempts he called a 'sick conspiracy' designed to help China beat the US at AI. The administration believes China stands to benefit if America slows its AI deployment.

Her appearance also highlights efforts in North Carolina's recovery after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in 2024. President Donald Trump and Melania traveled to the western portion of the state just four days after his inauguration. They offered support to victims of the storm. 'She really wanted to be here … she saw what happened,' Trump said at the time. He noted she has a feeling for North Carolina, like he does.

Melania praised the school for offering knowledge which 'no hurricane can destroy.' First lady Melania Trump is traveling to North Carolina on Tuesday to visit a local school. She visited in January 2025 to view recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene. That storm caused an estimated $60 billion in total damages in the state. It was responsible for 107 storm-related fatalities. A source familiar with her plans told the Daily Mail that the tour of devastation made a big impact on her. She had planned earlier this year to personally witness the recovery efforts.

The first lady praised the strength and determination of a community still recovering from a '1,000-year flood,' she remarked on Tuesday. 'Your school provided food, water supplies, and hope,' she went on. Melania added that North Carolina has shown resilience. You are the spirit of America. Melania avoided midterm campaign events during the president's first term. She has not participated in official campaign rallies for Republicans this cycle either.

Melania Trump skipped the inaugural midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, last week. She did not speak or show up for that gathering. Her recent stop in North Carolina was different though. The event there focused on community resilience and education technology rather than overt politics. She visited an elementary school to meet students directly. Republicans in the state view her presence as a significant boost. They are fighting hard to keep their Senate seat safe from former Governor Roy Cooper. Cooper is challenging Michael Whatley in November. That contest follows the retirement of Senator Thom Tillis. Whatley previously served as chairman of the Republican National Committee.

Melania told the gathered children, 'Maybe you will develop the next robot,' while urging them to bring their creations to the White House. This trip fits her broader goal of merging technology with education. A High Point University poll from late August showed Cooper leading at 50 percent support against Whatley's 45 percent. Michael Whatley told the Daily Mail, 'First Lady Melania Trump has been a tireless advocate for our children and ensuring they have the tools they need to lead America into the Golden Age.' He added that he appreciates her work in Ashe County to bring much-needed STEM education to the next generation. Sources say Whatley will not attend this specific event. Donald Trump plans an official rally with his rival on Wednesday in Gastonia. Melania visited school children in the state back in November 2025. She usually dodges formal campaign stops for midterms, preferring subtle events that match her goals.

Polls now show Whatley trailing Cooper by about eight points. Yet these back-to-back visits from the president and First Lady offer fresh hope to Republicans. They believe supporters will be motivated to back Whatley after all. Donald Trump won North Carolina easily in 2016, 2020, and 2024. The administration has placed special emphasis on the state recently. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hosted G20 finance ministers and central bank governors in Asheville last year. That summit aimed to showcase recovery from devastating storms and flooding. First Lady Melania Trump, Second Lady Usha Vance, and Vice President JD Vance have all visited the region over recent months. JD Vance appeared with Whatley for an event in March. The stakes feel high now as election day approaches.