Melania's speech was supposed to start an 'image pivot' for Trump - but put him on defensive instead

Delegates parade a Donald Trump banner around the floor at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio. Picture Credit: REUTERS/Mike Segar

Shona Murray

Republicans spent yesterday batting away charges that parts of the maiden speech by would-be first lady, Melania Trump were plagiarised directly from one given by Michelle Obama in 2008.

The speech was supposed to set the ball rolling on an 'image pivot' by the Trump campaign to try to soften his public persona, from unhinged autocrat to a loyal, family-orientated patriot.