Body language expert breaks down how Melania Trump really feels about Donald Trump after election victory

PALM BEACH, FLORIDA: As Donald Trump celebrated his big election win, body language expert Darren Stanton had some thoughts on Melania Trump’s vibe up on stage.

Standing by Trump’s side as he thanked supporters and called this victory “the greatest political movement of all time", the former first lady appeared poised but a little distant, according to Stanton.

Melania Trump appears not so thrilled as she stands by Donald Trump's side after win

Working with betting firm Spin Genie, expert Darren Stanton analyzed Melania Trump's expression and actions — suggesting that her smiles were “contrived” and her overall response showed “very little reciprocal liking", as per Daily Express.

Stanton observed, "With Melania, there’s still a reluctance from her. She smiles on stage but it appears to be a fake smile. She’s smiling because she has to, rather than instinctual. There was very little reciprocal liking, there was very little tacitness, no hugs, or being really close to each other, they’re pretty distant with no obvious signs of affection." 

During the Mar-a-Lago speech, Donald even took a moment to step away from the podium to kiss Melania on the cheek. But Stanton claimed the kiss didn’t seem mutual.

"If you look at Melania, most people would reciprocate," he said. "There’s no emotion coming from her, they are husband and wife, but it feels like a false greeting."

"Her head’s up which is almost like a gesture of defiance, she is reluctant to reciprocate the action. There’s no passion, she doesn’t want to be there and doesn’t like showing emotion towards him, but instead prefers to maintain her own composure," Stanton added. "He is doing all the work here."

Melania posted on X later that evening, reflecting on their return to the White House.

“The majority of Americans have entrusted us with this important responsibility. We will safeguard the heart of our republic – freedom,” she wrote.

“I anticipate the citizens of our nation rejoining in commitment to each other and rising above ideology for the sake of individual liberty, economic prosperity, and security. American energy, skill, and initiative will bring together our best minds to propel our nation forward forevermore."

Melania Trump's absence from husband's campaign sparks questions

While Melania Trump was by Donald Trump’s side for the big election night and even joined him to vote on Election Day, her time on the campaign trail has been notably scarce. In fact, her absence was so unmistakable that people started asking, “Where’s Melania?”

There were even “missing” posters and a plane banner sporting the same question.

She did pop up for a few key moments, like Trump’s rally at Madison Square Garden in October and the Republican National Convention in July. On these rare appearances, she showed up with her usual polished look and was all smiles, but her low-key presence had people wondering if she was really all in on Trump’s second run.

With Trump’s return to the White House official, there’s already buzz about how involved Melania will actually be. Word on the street is she’s not exactly thrilled about heading back to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

A source told People that Melania might split her time across several residences. “She will have her private living apartment there, and she has her home in New York, and her home at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach,” the insider shared.

“She will spend time in all of these places.”