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Later that evening, the pair shared a special moment at the Liberty Ball — an event dedicated to the president’s supporters.
Guests braved the chilly Washington night to attend, lining up in the freezing cold for a chance to join the exclusive celebration. Inside, they were greeted with performances by country superstar Jason Aldean and, in a playful nod to Trump’s rally playlists, the iconic Village People.
A tongue-in-cheek nod
Among the VIPs were Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, adding a touch of glamour to the night. Attendees even had a unique photo opportunity with a gray backdrop featuring the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office logo — a tongue-in-cheek nod to Trump’s infamous mug shot following his surrender on charges related to the 2020 Georgia election case.
Many would agree that the highlight of the Liberty Ball was when Trump took the floor once again with the First Lady, sharing another dance to the same Elvis-style rendition of “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
Vice President J.D. Vance joined in, along with Trump’s adult children and their families, creating a memorable moment on the dance floor.
Sharp-eyed viewers may have noticed Donald and Melania Trump exchanging a few words during their dance, but for most, it was nearly impossible to catch what they were saying. Melania rested her hand gently on her husband’s back, leaning in closer as they shared a quiet, intimate moment in front of the crowd.
Melania’s words to Donald Trump
However, lip-reading expert Jeremy Freeman had no trouble decoding their conversation. Freeman, a certified Expert Witness Forensic Lip Reader trained at the Deafness Cognition and Language Research Centre at University College London, provided insights into what the distinguished couple was discussing.
Jeremy Freeman reveals that during their dance, Melania leaned in and told President Trump, “Today is one we will never forget.” The 78-year-old president responded, “You’re right, I’ll learn, I’ll fight.”
In a tender moment, Melania reassured him, saying, “I got you.”
Trump then reportedly replied, “We’ll see. Will you control it? Less tricky, less pushing away?” To this, the First Lady responded firmly, “It’s a no,” to which Trump acknowledged, “I hear you.”
The dances at the three inaugural balls definitely got plenty of attention, though not everyone saw them as heartwarming moments.
Body language expert explains
Body language expert Mark Bowden pointed out that Melania seemed a bit uneasy during the brief dance with her husband, especially as she had to “support” his weight.
“This shaky start leaves Trump leaning his full weight forward, while Melania manages to meet him cheek to cheek. With her wide-brimmed hat no longer serving as a barrier, the couple is closer than earlier in the day—though precariously close to the ear that once took a bullet,” he observed, according to The Mirror.
“Trump and Melania’s Inaugural Ball first dance was something else-a stiff, awkward shuffle that looked more like a hostage situation than a celebration. The man who claimed he’d “Make America Great Again” couldn’t even make a slow dance look convincing.”
The dance at the Liberty Ball sparked mixed reactions online, with many viewers weighing in. Some weren’t shy about critiquing the couple’s interaction, with one commenting, “Awkward. You are lying if you don’t notice that.”
Another person weighed in, saying, “Trump and Melania’s Inaugural Ball first dance was something else — a stiff, awkward shuffle that looked more like a hostage situation than a celebration.”
But not everyone shared the same view. One observer, offering a more positive take, commented, “So sweet,” providing a refreshing contrast to the wider criticism.
What did you think of Donald Trump’s inauguration and the moments that followed? From the much-discussed first dance with Melania to the mixed reactions from onlookers, the evening sparked plenty of conversation. Was it an awkward shuffle, a sweet moment, or something in between? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let the debate continue!
