In an exclusive analysis, body language expert Bruce Durham from Huddle Culture has revealed how King Charles III executed a 'subtle power play' during his farewell to US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House. The monarch, alongside Queen Camilla, concluded the fourth day of their US state visit with a ceremonial departure from the South Portico, having returned from New York for the occasion.
King Charles' Commanding Presence
According to Durham, the King's demeanour remained cool, calm, and collected despite standing beside the unpredictable US leader. 'What we're seeing here is a subtle power play, and the sequence matters,' Durham explained. As Charles exited the vehicle, he adjusted his jacket button—a pacifying behaviour, but then immediately opened his posture with his right hand, exposing his ventral area. 'In many contexts, that signals a lack of threat or a sense of ease,' Durham noted. 'With the President and First Lady waiting, it communicates confidence. The message is: I feel no threat here.'
Trump's Attempt to Regain Control
Durham observed that Trump attempted to reassert dominance through a double-handed handshake, which can be interpreted as overbearing. However, the most telling dynamic was verbal. 'There's a well-known idea that the person who speaks first loses,' Durham said. Trump stepped in with praise, calling Charles his 'favourite king,' but when reporters turned to Charles, he largely held silence. 'That silence is key. It’s the kind many people find uncomfortable. Trump steps back in, filling the space. Charles stays composed and restrained.'
Throughout the state visit, Charles used soft diplomatic powers to solidify the monarchy's strength. 'King Charles came, he saw, he conquered, dropped his mic and exited stage right with a grin on his face,' Durham concluded.
