Melania Trump and Usha Vance‘s interaction at the 113th Annual First Lady’s Luncheon has been raising eyebrows since the event.

A body language expert has now weighed in on the exchange, claiming that the First Lady appeared cold toward her counterpart, despite Vance offering praise while introducing her to the stage.

The expert also gave an explanation for Melania Trump’s behavior, claiming that she likely chose to lean into her businesswoman element.

Body Expert Said There Was No ‘Greeting Ritual’ Between Melania Trump And Usha Vance

According to body language expert Judi James, Melania’s behavior toward Vance at the luncheon event could be described as “cold,” even though it might have gone unnoticed by many at the event.

James specifically pointed to the moment when Vance introduced Melania to the stage to give her remarks.

The moment began with Vance highlighting the First Lady’s various achievements as a political figure, businesswoman, author, and producer, and ended with Melania barely acknowledging Vance upon arriving on the stage.

“There is no greeting ritual between the two women when you might have expected a hug or even a brief touch plus some warm eye contact of acknowledgment,” James said of the interaction between the ladies, per the Irish Star.

“Instead, as Usha stands close to her, turned inward to smile at her, Melania faces the room, rotating her eye contact and smile around her audience,” the body expert added.

Why Melania Trump Acted Cold Towards Usha Vance

The body language expert did offer an explanation for why Melania might have acted in that manner toward Vance.

She suggested it could have been inspired by Melania choosing to lean more into her identity as a businesswoman rather than focusing on her role as First Lady. However, it is unclear why she may have chosen that approach, given how casual the gathering was.

James also said that Melania’s body language could have been “pre-arranged” to present her as a “serious heavyweight with some powerful message,” rather than displaying a more empathetic persona typical of a traditional First Lady.

If Vance had any issues with the coldness, she didn’t seem to express them in the gathering at the time,  and looked content with having done her job.

Social Media Users Slammed The First Lady for Appearing Cold Toward Usha Vance

Online, many netizens weren’t pleased with Melania’s coldness toward Usha and said so in many words.

“Boy, what an ice b-tch! Doesn’t even acknowledge Usha. And I’m sure no one in the audience was able to understand a word she said. Such an empty and cold soul,” a user commented.

Meanwhile, Usha was praised for maintaining a consistent smile and facing forward while on stage, including during her introduction of Melania.

“Usha, your beautiful smile shows your genuine love and friendship with Melania. You’re a lovely partner for JD, and we love your commitment to [the] US and your family, a user said.

“Usha Vance is Elegant and classy, and beautiful and kind and very special,” another individual commented.

All About Melania Trump’s Speech

At the luncheon event, Melania began her speech by sharing her gratitude to the attendees for the privilege of taking part in the tradition, before going on to discuss her work with children.

“America’s children are our moral equals. As parents and leaders, it is our ethical obligation to ensure our kids develop emotionally and physically within a safe environment,” the First Lady said.

She particularly pointed to working with members of the Ways and Means Committee to advance legislation aimed at protecting the foster care community, adding that it would be a major milestone for her if it were introduced into law.

“When passed, this will mark the second piece of legislation I have championed for the protection of America’s next generation,” she said.

The First Lady Called On Like-Minded People To Join Her Mission

During Her Speech, Melania went on to list other initiatives focused on benefiting children.

These included Fostering the Future, the Take It Down Act, and other charitable efforts such as the reunification of Ukrainian and Russian refugee children with their families.

Rounding out the speech, the first lady called on like-minded individuals to join her in her mission.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as First Lady, but understand that my persistence alone is not enough. Together, we can change people’s lives for the better,” Melania concluded.