President Donald Trump joked that First Lady Melania Trump dislikes his signature dance to the song “YMCA,” saying she has repeatedly urged him to stop performing it at rallies.
Speaking to supporters in Florida, Trump said, “She hates when I dance to what’s sometimes referred to as the gay national anthem,” referring to the 1978 hit by the Village People. He added, “We love that song.”
Trump has frequently used “YMCA” at campaign events and rallies, often dancing on stage as the song plays. He told supporters that his use of the track helped boost its popularity decades after its original release.
Melania Trump has previously commented on the routine.
In a January interview, she said she only likes the performance “at certain times” and told him it is not always appropriate. She also described his dancing as “not presidential,” while acknowledging that supporters enjoy it.
The song itself has been a recurring part of Trump’s public appearances since his campaign events leading into the 2024 election. It reached renewed commercial success during that period, including hitting the No. 1 spot in November 2024.
“YMCA” has long been associated with the disco era and has been interpreted in different ways over time.
Some listeners have described it as connected to gay culture due to the Greenwich Village roots of the group and the historical use of YMCA facilities as gathering spaces. Others, including co-writer Victor Willis, have rejected that interpretation.
Willis has said the song was not written as a message about sexuality and pushed back on claims about its meaning. He also acknowledged that Trump’s campaign obtained the proper license to use the track, even though he described its continued use as a “nuisance.”
The Village People themselves have taken a mixed approach to political reactions.
The group performed at events tied to Trump’s inauguration in 2025, a move that drew criticism from parts of their fan base. Some former members objected publicly, while others associated with the group said music should be performed regardless of politics, per the Daily Mail.
Trump’s use of “YMCA” remains a consistent feature of his rallies.
The dancing has become one of his most recognizable campaign traits, often drawing crowd participation and attention on social media. While critics question the optics, supporters view it as part of his informal style and connection with audiences.
His comments about Melania’s reaction highlight a contrast between his public persona and internal feedback from those closest to him. Despite her reservations, Trump has continued to use the song and incorporate the dance into appearances, indicating no plans to change the routine.
The moment reflects how campaign traditions can evolve into defining elements of a political figure’s image, even when they generate mixed reactions.
