President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump appeared in ‘misalignment’ at today’s inauguration, after an air kiss blunder left body language experts doubting that all was well in the presidential marriage
Awkward moment Trump couldn’t kiss wife Melania as hat gets in way
President Donald Trump has today been sworn in as President of the United States for the second time, with third wife Melania Trump watching on as her husband swore his solemn oath.
For many couples, this would be an extraordinary moment, but many couldn’t help but pick up on an awkwardness between the pair.
Indeed, as Trump, 78, attempted to kiss Melania, 54, on the cheek – just before making his oath – her black and white wide-brimmed hat appeared to get in the way of the affectionate gesture. Then, as the world looked on, the couple shared an air kiss instead, which one body language expert believes to be telling.
On behalf of Covers, body language expert Inbaal Honigman remarked: “The Trumps’ awkward air kiss as Donald approaches Melania upon entry is a case study in misalignment.
“He’s 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.
“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 one another. In fact, Trump’s congratulating hand on Usha Vance after JD’s swearing-in is more personal and kind than his kiss for Melania.”
Inbaal also noticed a change in Melania’s body language when compared to Trump’s first inauguration back in 2017, sharing: “Melania’s body language during the 2025 inauguration is still and neutral. She sits still in her model pose, her facial expression neutral, not drawing any attention to herself, letting all attention be on her husband. In comparison, Melania of 2017 flashed smiles and waved around, displaying a more friendly persona to the crowds.”
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