Melania Trump Attacks Joe Biden, Says Democrat Has 'Socialist Agenda' In Campaign Appearance

First lady Melania Trump returned to the campaign trail Tuesday and drew attention for some provocative comments. She said Democratic nominee Joe Biden has a "socialist agenda" and described President Donald Trump as a “fighter” at an event in Atglen, Pennsylvania.

“Joe Biden’s policies and socialist agenda will only serve to destroy America and all that has been built in the past four years,” the first lady said, saying the former vice president would take the nation “backwards.”

Biden is considered a moderate Democrat. He held off more progressive candidates such as Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren in the party's primaries and has rejected more left-wing policies such as Medicare For All and a Green New Deal. Biden has also raised money from Wall Street donors.

Gallup in October 2018 reported on how the definition of socialism has evolved in recent years. According to Investopedia, socialism is defined as "a populist economic and political system based on public ownership (also known as collective or common ownership) of the means of production."

Melania Trump’s direct attacks on Biden are unusual for a first lady, as most historically have avoided the political fray. Former first lady Michelle Obama garnered attention in 2012 when she indirectly criticized Mitt Romney's wealth.

Melania Trump's comments come after she has mostly shied away from the campaign trail. She last appeared at a rally for her husband in June 2019.

Unlike most first ladies, Melania Trump, in just one presidential term, has been the subject of multiple controversies.

In private recordings with former friend and staffer Stephanie Winton Walkoff, Melania Trump expressed a lack of sympathy for separated children at the U.S.-Mexico border and bashed Christmas decorations.

In June 2018, she was seen wearing a jacket that read on the back, “I don’t really care. Do U?” which ignited controversy as the administration dealt with the family separation crisis.

On multiple occasions, the first lady has been seen slapping away the hand of Donald Trump, has been accused of plagiarism, and faced criticism for not wearing a mask during the pandemic.

However, Melania Trump has also spearheaded a campaign against cyberbullying, though the efforts have received a mixed reaction due to criticism of Donald Trump's Twitter account which has included name-calling and alleged witness intimidation.