According To Experts, Trump's Inauguration Was Full Of Subtle Hints

Politicians from both political parties politely smiled and clapped when Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and former President Joe Biden and Harris entered the rotunda. But their mannerisms — and the audience’s responses — offer clues into their deeper emotional states. 

Vance, for example, was having the biggest moment of his life, yet he was holding back and following protocol, Donaldson noted. “This is evidenced by the tight-lipped smile,” she said. “We can’t see his teeth.” 

Cobb was surprised that Vance did not acknowledge his wife, Usha Vance, when he took his seat. He greeted others around him, but did not interact with her, even though she was looking at him. “Perhaps he was preoccupied, but the absence of a small gesture toward his wife could raise questions about his emotional presence,” Cobb said.

The audience, too, remained expressionless during Vance’s entrance, which Donaldson said signals a general acceptance.

When Trump walked down the aisle, he did so slowly and intentionally. “This shows authority,” Brown said. 

During his entrance, former President Biden frowned slightly as he walked through the building. His lips were together and tight. “That’s silent disagreement with the situation,” Brown said. As for Harris? Donaldson said the reception was quite monotone, packed with courtesy smiles. This kind of smile, which heavily involves the lips versus the eyes or teeth, “signals politeness and respect for what they are witnessing,” Donaldson explained.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.