The “culprit” behind Melania Trump’s speech at the Republican National Convention that contained phrases lifted from a 2008 speech made by First Lady Michelle Obama has come forward with a statement.
“My name is Meredith McIver and I’m an in-house staff writer at the Trump Organization,” she wrote. “I am also a longtime friend and admirer of the Trump family.
“In working with Melania Trump on her recent First Lady speech, we discussed many people who inspired her and messages she wanted to share with the American people. A person she has always liked is Michelle Obama. Over the phone, she read me some passages from Mrs. Obama’s speech. I did not check Mrs. Obama’s speeches.
“This was my mistake, and I feel terrible for the chaos I have caused Melania and the Trumps, as well as to Mrs. Obama. No harm was meant.”
McIver said she tendered her resignation to Donald Trump and his family, but they refused to accept it. Her statement indicates Trump told her it was an “innocent mistake” and an opportunity to “learn and grow.”
“I asked to put out this statement because I did not like seeing the way this was distracting from Mr. Trump’s historic campaign for president and Melania’s beautiful message and presentation,” she wrote. “I apologize for the confusion and hysteria my mistake has caused. Today, more than ever, I am honored to work for such a great family. I personally admire the way Mr. Trump has handled this situation and I am grateful for his understanding.”
There had been calls for Trump to fire whomever was responsible, but the campaign’s statement makes it clear that won’t be happening.
