Body language expert Judi James reveals the signs that Theresa May dominated in this subtle White House power battle
Were there secret tensions lurking behind the smiles in the Oval Office?
BRITISH Prime Minister asserted her authority over President Trump during their historic meeting today, according to analysis from TV body language expert Judi James.
Theresa May was all-smiles as she was greeted by the new President, and the pair were quick to bond over restoring the bust of iconic PM Winston Churchill back to the Oval Office.
But body language analyst Judi James believes that the pair showed signs of tension during the highly-anticipated meeting.
The TV behaviour expert revealed: “It was vital that May wasn't 'Poodle-ized' by Trump, i.e. reduced to looking like his poodle via any power-patting or other patronising performances but in the event she stole the show.
“She looked polite but slightly distant, smiling at the right moments but displaying higher levels of experience, confidence and authority."
As the day drew on, Judi suggests that relations became increasingly fraught.
She said: “Trump offered a warm doorstep greeting but by the time they had stepped inside the poses began to look awkward and frosty.”
Trump and May went through extensive discussions, from Brexit to torture, but was their public appearance hiding any secrets?
The greeting
Body language analyst Judi James’ says:
“Trump registered respect by performing an act of inconvenience, coming right out to greet May before she stepped out of the car.
"He meets her face-to-face, clasping her arm in a mimed hug to register warmth and offered friendship.
"His attitude was one of respect though and when they posed for the cameras it was interesting that it was May who seemed to nod her head to announce the photo-shoot should end.
"Trump used one arm to usher her inside but there was no patting or actual touch to suggest a lack of respect for her authority."
The handshake
Body language analyst Judi James’ says:
“The handshake looked awkward and May turned it into a bit of an old-fashioned power shake by raising her hand, making it look almost like a royal offering the hand to be kissed.
“It also raised her visual status while he just appeared to be clinging on.”
The stance
Body language analyst Judi James’ says:
“May kept a large spatial gap between herself and Trump, posing rigidly upright with her hands by her sides and only occasionally glancing in his direction.
“With her feet slightly splayed in a power pose she out-alpha-ed the President who smiled sheepishly like a man eager to impress.”
The press shot
Body language analyst Judi James’ says:
“So far Trump has liked to pose with other politicians in a quasi-selfie style, reducing them to the role of fan.
“Here he employs the same 'thumbs up' gesture he used with Farage but May retains a frosty dignity, refusing to mirror or mug for the cameras.”