Travel, security, lifetime pensions, and even unique fanfare from the Marine Corps band—the list of perks and benefits afforded to the First Spouse is quite extensive. In a new issue brief, NTUF Vice President of Research Demian Brady and Associate Policy Analyst Ali Motamedi explore how the role of the First Spouse has expanded over the past century and what this means for the costs of maintaining the office.
In the new issue brief, Brady and Motamedi write:
While the role of the First Spouse is an unpaid “office of honor,” it comes with several perks and privileges. These include residing in the White House, personal security details, and logistical support. Over the years, the position has evolved from a purely domestic role within the White House residence to one of significant public influence, accompanied by an increase in support staff and taxpayer dollars. This is especially evident with the quadrupling of the Office of First Lady’s personnel and the tripling of the salary costs in 2024 compared to just two years ago.
The extensive perks for First Spouses have been supplemented in recent years with the significant expansion of personnel. Of recent First Spouses, Hillary Clinton had an average of 11 staff, Laura Bush an average of 10, Michelle Obama an average of 12, Melanie Trump an average of 5, and Jill Biden an average of 15. However, since 2022, Jill Biden’s staff has expanded substantially, with 24 staff members in 2024 receiving a total salary of $2.4 million.
To discuss the perks and benefits afforded to First Spouses and their evolving role with NTUF Vice President of Research Demian Brady, please contact NTU Communications Manager Courtney Manley at 703-299-8671 or courtney.manley@ntu.org.