Melania Trump, Wife of Donald Trump, the presidential candidate of the US Republican party has come under fire on the first day of the Republican National Convention after she was accused of stealing a portion of her speech from United States First Lady, Michelle Obama.

Commentators noticed similarities with Mrs. Obama’s 2008 convention speech, the BBC reports. Mrs. Trump’s speech also praised her husband as a “compassionate” man who would “fight for the country.”

It was the first speech by Melania Trump for the campaign and she had the help of a speechwriting team.

In a section, Mrs. Trump said: “My parents impressed on me the values that you work hard for what you want in life; that your word is your bond and you do what you say and keep your promise; that you treat people with respect.”

Mr. Trump’s communications adviser, Jason Miller, issued a statement saying: “In writing her beautiful speech, Melania’s team of writers took notes on her life’s inspirations, and in some instances included fragments that reflected her own thinking.

“Melania’s immigrant experience and love for America shone through in her speech, which made it such a success.”

The Slovenian-born former model had used the speech to portray her husband as a tough but compassionate unifying force.

“He’s tough when he has to be but he’s also kind and fair and caring,” Mrs. Trump said. “The kindness is not always noted, but it’s there for all to see. That is one reason I fell in love with him to begin with.”

Mrs. Trump has kept a lower profile compared with other spouses of major candidates. The Trumps’ adult children have often been more prominent.

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