Trump Biden Meeting: Body Language Experts on the Handshake, Postures

The first formal meeting between President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, held on Nov. 13, 2024, symbolized a strikingly courteous and composed start to the upcoming transition. The two leaders, seated by a cozy fire in the Oval Office, publicly shared cordial words before beginning a more private exchange.

As Biden welcomed Trump back to the White House, he offered assurances of a smooth transition. Trump acknowledged Biden’s gesture, remarking, "Politics is tough, but today is a good day," expressing gratitude for Biden’s commitment to cooperation.

This meeting—an iconic part of the U.S. presidential transition—drew notable attention, particularly for the leaders’ body language, as they have often been rivals in heated public exchanges. Body language experts analyzed their gestures and interactions to reveal what may lie beneath the civility.

Mutual Respect and Power Dynamics

Dr. Abbie Maroño, a behavioral scientist, noted that both Biden and Trump showed respect through open postures and confident gestures, setting a tone for collaboration. They maintained an upright posture, with occasional smiles, subtly conveying cooperation.

Susan Constantine, another body language expert, observed contrasting nonverbal cues. Trump’s relaxed stance, marked by his trademark steeple hand position, signaled calm confidence. Biden, on the other hand, appeared tense, occasionally casting his gaze downward and hesitating during their handshake, which hinted at discomfort.

Gesture Variations and Psychological Insights

Body language analyst Tonya Reiman remarked on subtle power plays in the interaction. Biden initiated the handshake, showing authority, but Trump positioned himself in a way that emphasized his own control, suggesting he still viewed himself as influential. Reiman also noted Biden’s readiness to end the meeting, indicated by his hands placed on his knees—a gesture of someone prepared to stand up.

Jan Hargrave highlighted Trump’s restrained body language, such as his defensive, cross-body stance and his controlling handshake gesture, which conveyed a blend of assertiveness and guardedness. Biden, by contrast, leaned slightly forward, showing interest and willingness to engage in the conversation.

Symbolic Context and Visual Framing

Chris Ulrich added that the Oval Office’s arrangement played a key role in the visual dynamics, with Trump positioned to the left and Biden to the right, subtly symbolizing continuity. Ulrich noted that Trump allowed Biden to take the upper hand in their handshake, signaling a measure of respect for Biden’s current role while still conveying confidence.

Patti Wood observed Biden's somewhat submissive stance during the handshake, as he focused more on his hand than making eye contact, while Trump’s firm grip and steady gaze hinted at a desire to dominate the moment.

Environmental Nuances and Final Impressions

The roaring fire in the Oval Office, likely intended to create warmth and tradition, underscored a cordial ambiance, adding symbolic weight to the meeting. As the exchange concluded, Trump’s subdued demeanor and Biden’s gentle smile hinted at an underlying tension. Experts speculated that Trump’s downcast energy might indicate mixed emotions about his impending return.

Ultimately, the meeting left the impression that, despite their historical rivalry, both leaders aimed to demonstrate respect for the office they hold, signaling a commitment to a stable transition.