President Donald Trump surprised guests at a White House holiday party on Monday evening by announcing that his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, had become engaged to Bettina Anderson, a prominent Florida socialite and philanthropist.
In a video shared on social media by Trump ally Laura Loomer, the president called the couple to the stage, where Donald Jr, 47, expressed his delight. “I’m not usually at a loss for words, because I’m usually doing the ranting and raving really well,” he said. “I want to thank Bettina for that one word: ‘Yes.'”
Anderson, wearing a sparkling red gown, described the weekend as unforgettable. “I get to marry the love of my life, and I feel like the luckiest girl in the world,” she told the applauding crowd, thanking the president and first lady Melania Trump for hosting.
The couple’s relationship, which became public around a year ago amid speculation over Donald Jr’s previous engagement, has been increasingly visible. They attended high-profile events together throughout 2025, including the presidential inauguration in January, a Super Bowl trip, and official White House functions.
Anderson, daughter of entrepreneur Harry Loy Anderson Jr and philanthropist Inger Anderson, is known in Palm Beach circles for her modelling work, conservation efforts through Project Paradise, and advocacy for the Hope for Depression Research Foundation. A Columbia University graduate, she has long been part of Florida’s elite social scene.
Donald Jr was previously married to Vanessa Trump for 12 years until their 2018 divorce; they share five children aged 11 to 18. He was later engaged to Kimberly Guilfoyle from 2020 until their unreported split in 2024. Guilfoyle, now serving as US ambassador to Greece after Senate confirmation in September, remains on good terms with the family.
The engagement marks a new chapter for Donald Jr amid his father’s second term, with sources describing Anderson as a positive influence. Details of the proposal remain private, though reports suggest an impressive emerald-cut diamond ring.
