Why Donald Trump’s ‘awkward’ kiss with Melania got everyone talking

Donald Trump’s inauguration for his second term as President of the United States on January 20, 2025, was full of memorable moments, with one involving Melania Trump quickly going viral. While the president made sweeping promises in his speech, the first lady’s subtle actions and attire stole much of the spotlight.

A moment caught on camera – Melania Trump’s ‘kiss dodge’

As Donald and Melania Trump arrived at the traditional church service that marks the start of the inauguration day, an awkward exchange between the couple left many buzzing. Cameras captured the former president leaning in for what appeared to be a kiss on the lips. Melania, however, turned her head, seemingly offering her cheek instead.

Body language expert Judi James weighed in, suggesting the moment was significant but not necessarily a rejection. She described the gesture as a “cheek kiss” initiated by Melania, adding that Donald Trump had “tenderly” taken her hand in a romantic gesture beforehand. However, James also called it a “heart-stopping moment” that hinted at a lack of synchronization between the pair.

Social media erupted with debates, with some claiming it was an intentional “dodge” by Melania, while others dismissed it as a coincidence. Meanwhile, her outfit also drew attention. Melania wore a high-necked, dark ensemble with a large boater hat, leading some critics to describe her look as overly somber for a celebratory occasion. Online comments compared her style to that of a “mob wife at a funeral” and even referred to it as “Dark MAGA.”

Melania’s future in the White House

Rumors continue to swirl about Melania’s plans during Donald Trump’s second term. Sources close to the family suggest she may not live in the White House full-time, opting instead to divide her time between Washington, D.C., and New York, where the couple’s teenage son, Barron, attends school. Melania has long been known for keeping a lower profile compared to other first ladies, and this decision, if true, may reflect her preference for a quieter life.

Trump’s sweeping promises for his second term

While the spotlight on Inauguration Day briefly shifted to Melania, Donald Trump delivered a speech full of bold promises, signaling the start of a controversial second term. Among his key pledges:

• Immigration crackdown: Trump vowed to implement “the largest deportation program in American history,” targeting what he called “vicious and bloodthirsty criminals.”
• Transparency on government files: He promised to release classified documents, including those tied to the assassinations of JFK and Martin Luther King Jr.
• Education reform: Trump pledged to cut federal funding for schools teaching critical race theory or “transgender insanity,” doubling down on culture war issues.
• Ending birthright citizenship: A long-standing goal of Trump, he reiterated his desire to end the constitutional right to citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents.

Perhaps most controversially, Trump floated the idea of pardoning individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots, framing them as patriots.

Critics argue that some of these promises, such as ending birthright citizenship, are unlikely to pass legal or constitutional hurdles. Still, his supporters hail the speech as a clear indication that Trump intends to govern aggressively in his second term.

The road ahead

The start of Donald Trump’s second term comes with high expectations and deep divides. While his bold rhetoric energizes his base, his policies and approach are already drawing sharp criticism from opponents. At the same time, viral moments like Melania’s “kiss dodge” and speculation about her future highlight how the Trump presidency continues to dominate public attention on both serious and lighthearted levels.

As the nation braces for what lies ahead, the question remains: Can Trump deliver on his ambitious promises and leave behind a legacy as the leader who reshaped America, or will his second term amplify the controversies that have long surrounded him?

What do you think? Will Trump’s bold agenda succeed, or will it face insurmountable challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments below.