Body-language specialist says Donald Trump's flag-waving smile looked forced

While officiating the Freedom 250 IndyCar race in Washington, D.C., Donald Trump lifted a green flag to signal the start of the event. Video of the moment quickly spread online, prompting body-language specialist Inbaal Honigman to evaluate his performance. Honigman said the president's hand and wrist actions were hesitant, as if he had never waved a flag before, and that he seemed to expect the flag to glide smoothly.

She highlighted an uncomfortable, beatific smile that conflicted with the vigorous way he tugged the flag, interpreting the expression as forced. According to Honigman, Trump appeared to realize the mishap, clenched his teeth, and then tried to compensate by raising his chin and adding more force. The analyst concluded that the president was visibly frustrated, using a fake smile to mask his discomfort while attempting to project confidence.