Body language expert has awkward theory behind Donald Trump’s failed attempt to kiss Melania at inauguration
A body language expert has spoken about *that* awkward moment between Donald and Melania Trump at this week's inauguration.
On Monday (20 January) Trump, 78, was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States following his first presidency back in 2017.
Even if you didn't watch the historical moment, you'll have no doubt seen countless memes of Trump attempting to kiss Melania upon his arrival at the US Capitol Rotunda.
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The new president leant in to kiss his wife, only to be obstructed by her wide-brimmed hat. In the end, the pair sort of gave up and had an air kiss instead.
Speaking about the uncomfortable encounter, one body language expert, Inbaal Honigman, said that Trump looked 'unsure how to show affection to his wife'.
"Trump may have wanted to demonstrate marital bliss in greeting his missus with a kiss when he walked in, but their uncertain interaction ended up showing that they don't respond naturally to another," Honigman told Covers.com.
"[Trump] is clearly unsure how to show affection towards his wife in the presence of her impressive hat, but neither of them attempts to solve the situation.
"Melania could have angled her face to present her cheek to her husband. Donald could have bent a little lower to reach his wife's cheek. But neither of them did it."
Honigman also said that Melania's stance was much more 'neutral' compared to Trump's inauguration in 2017.
"She sits still in her model pose, her facial expression neutral, not drawing any attention to herself, letting all attention be on her husband," said Honigman.
"In comparison, Melania of 2017 flashed smiles and waved around, displaying a more friendly persona to the crowds."
Viewers at home had a lot to say about the moment, too, with some questioning the First Lady's outfit choice.
One viewer jibed on X afterwards: "I’ve just realised why Melania is wearing that wide-brimmed hat - it made it impossible for Trump to land his attempted kiss….Smart woman…"
Another noted: "Trump attempting to kiss Melania but the brim of her hat got in the way. That was strange."
"Trump told Melania not to wear that hat. He couldn't kiss her," a third teased.
"All time moment there with Trump trying to give Melania a kiss on cheek without hitting her hat," a fourth penned, while a fifth asked: "Was that an air kiss that Trump gave Melania?"
Tyla has reached out to Trump's reps for comment.
Topics: Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Politics, Sex and Relationships, US News
Lucy Devine