Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Jan. 20, 2025, marking his return to the White House after a four-year absence.
Trump's inaugural address highlighted his vision for the nation. Declaring, "the golden age of America begins right now," he outlined priorities such as energy independence, national security, and a promise to restore the country's global strength.
Though the Presidential Inauguration drew widespread attention, much of the focus extended beyond the speeches to the subtle, unspoken dynamics of the day, with body language playing a key role in shaping the atmosphere.
From Trump's composed demeanor at the lectern to Vice President JD Vance's approachable and optimistic gestures, the day was filled with subtle cues. Observers also noted contrasts in the reserved expressions of Democratic leaders, sparking curiosity at dynamics at play.
To explore this further, Newsweek reached out to body language experts to analyze key moments of the ceremony.
From Susan Constantine: Trump Family Presented Royalty, Lauren Sanchez Earned Low Score in Lace Corset
The Trump family presented themselves with a regal air, evoking comparisons to an American royal family. Their attire and posture radiated an iconic, aristocratic style, exemplified by Vance's wife, who stood elegantly in her rose-pitch dress coat.
In stark contrast, Lauren Sanchez's choice of a white suit with a visible lace corset was inappropriate for the occasion, earning a notably low score in dress and presence. Donald Trump himself appeared confident, strong, and presidential. His facial expressions conveyed a balance of seriousness and power, tempered with a calm, consoling demeanor that projected control.
After the inauguration, Jill Biden and Kamala Harris shared a heartfelt embrace, accompanied by a warm pat on the back, a cheek kiss, and genuine smiles. The moment suggested an effort to mend their relationship, projecting unity and mutual respect. In stark contrast, the Democratic leadership entered the room with somber expressions and stiff strides, their demeanor reminiscent of individuals walking to a guillotine.
Susan Constantine is a body language expert.
From Mark Bowden: Vice President Vance Amused and In Disbelief at Trump Renaming the Gulf of Mexico
JD Vance stepped into his new role as Vice President with an air of optimism. Bouncing lightly on his heels and raising his eyebrows in recognition of familiar faces, he projected a friendly and approachable demeanor.
In a departure from his characteristic handshake power play—typically intended to assert dominance—Trump demonstrated restraint while greeting those leading the prayers. This intentional choice suggests that his usual aggressive handshake is a conscious tactic rather than an unconscious habit.
Barron Trump remained stoic for most of the ceremony, though he broke into a rare smile as his father concluded the presidential vow.
Trump applauded the choir with visible enthusiasm, a gesture that appeared genuine. Teleprompters stood prominently throughout the event, signaling a determined effort to stay on script. As Trump approached the lectern, familiar elements of his body language and expressions surfaced, but his delivery appeared more subdued, likely due to his adherence to the prepared speech.
Trump's Speech
A significant pause followed Trump's mention of "the golden age of America," emphasizing it as a central theme. Early in the address, his speech avoided his usual improvisational repetition, though it included mixed metaphors such as "a tide of change" causing "sunlight to pour over the world."
When discussing the shortcomings of the previous administration, Trump adopted a softer tone, speaking closely into the microphone. This more intimate delivery contrasted with his typically bombastic style, lending weight to his critiques. Nonetheless, his signature hyperbole emerged as he described the election as "the most consequential ever."
As his speech progressed, Trump deviated from the teleprompter, reverting to familiar phrases like, "We will do it at a level that has never been seen before." These off-script moments brought back his trademark cadence and rhythm, a hallmark of his communication style.
The audience's biggest reaction came after Trump's emphatic declaration, "Drill, Baby, Drill." Delivered with notable strength and confidence, this line resonated more powerfully than his remarks on crime and gangs.
In a Kennedy-esque moment, Trump spoke of planting the American flag on Mars, eliciting mixed reactions. Vice President Vance smiled but refrained from standing to applaud Trump's announcement of renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America," perhaps reflecting a mix of amusement and disbelief.
Trump's speech reflected his signature branding, with repeated promises of unprecedented victories: "We're going to win like never before," and "Greater than ever before." These statements reinforced his unique approach to messaging, blending ambitious rhetoric with personal charisma.
Barron, however, appeared more reserved, possibly pondering the immense budget for placing an American flag on Mars—and its long-term financial implications for future generations. Yet, the initiative received a resounding thumbs-up from Elon Musk, who might stand to gain as the key beneficiary of federal funding for such an ambitious endeavor.
Mark Bowden is a body language expert and author.
From Blanca Cobb: Jill and Melania Reflected Division Within U.S.
Jill Biden and Melania Trump walked out of the White House doors out of step, a subtle yet striking reflection of the tension between their husbands, Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Perhaps, their lack of synchronization serves as a quiet metaphor for the division within our nation.
Blanca Cobb is a body language expert.
From Patti Wood: Was Trump Struggling to Read Prompters?
Just before swearing in, Trump looked very tired, bored, and unfocused. During his speech, Trump's head was tilted to the side as he spoke, instead of his head being erect and showing confidence.
Was he struggling to read the prompters? It looked very odd as it was a submissive head position, and he kept doing it as he spoke. Throughout the event, Trump had a downward steeple and downward mouth.
Patti Wood is a body language expert and certified speaking professional.
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