A body language expert has weighed in on Donald and Melania Trump’s relationship following an “awkward” onstage k*ss at Trump’s recent rally in Madison Square Garden. The couple’s brief embrace came after Melania, 54, introduced her husband, 78, as the “next commander-in-chief,” delivering a five-minute speech on his vision for America. However, for many attendees, the most memorable moment was the uncomfortable-looking k*ss, with Melania appearing to pull away slightly, sparking discussion about a lack of chemistry.
Body language expert Judi James shared her insights with The Mirror, suggesting that Donald Trump’s “mixed signalling” contributed to the clumsy embrace. “The k*ss itself is lacking in synchronicity, partly because of Trump’s mixed signalling as he approaches his wife,” she explained. “He throws both his arms out with his fingers splayed, in a gesture that looks less like an intent to hug and more like a man wanting to register and display his success to his wife.”
James described Melania’s reaction as hesitant, noting that her hands extended outward, but her elbows remained tucked, suggesting an “empty embrace.” She elaborated, “Trump’s arms begin to drop as he gets closer, but Melania is now offering some form of a hug. In the end, her hands hold his waist, and he places his hands on her shoulders, steering the k*ss.”
The couple then exchanged what James calls a “fashionista-style air k*ss,” with both raising their chins. She did, however, observe subtle signs of affection within the exchange, such as Melania’s slight nuzzling gesture and Trump’s apparent pleasure in the moment. “Trump’s second cheek k*ss is a big smacker, showing how pleased he is of Melania and himself,” she noted.
James also analyzed Melania’s speech, noting a shift from her usual reserved persona to a more engaging, “rock star”-like approach, designed to energize the crowd. “Her script suggests she is now being used to fill the crater-size hole of intellect, class, and taste left by the Trump/Hulk Hogan-style lineup,” James added.
The event drew further controversy due to crude and racially charged remarks from some of Trump’s guest speakers. One comedian, in particular, faced backlash after referring to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage.” Other speakers included businessman Grant Cardone, who made incendiary comments about Vice President Kamala Harris, and David Rem, a former acquaintance of Trump, who called the Democratic presidential candidate “the Antichrist” and “the devil.”
The rally and its incidents left attendees and viewers with much to dissect, from the couple’s unusual onstage chemistry to the polarized atmosphere created by the guest speakers.