With all the drama of slaps, grimaces, and less-than-subtle jabs, President Donald Trump’s visit to the Federal Reserve this week was more akin to seeing a silent political film. The headlines were dominated by the $3.1 billion restoration estimates, but if you looked closely, the nonverbal communication was the most fascinating aspect.
According to experts in body language interpretation, Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s slight shrugs, intense gazes, and striking head shake revealed the real tale.
Jerome Powell’s body language conveyed a different message than Donald Trump’s request for any more cost overruns in the restoration. He appeared to be thinking, “I can’t with this man,” based on his demeanor.
He stated, “As you can see, we’re well along, and we’re ready for them.”
Experts interviewed by HuffPost noted that Powell’s eyes briefly flickered closed, which they claimed was likely his brain’s method of blocking out the absurdity. Then came his tight frown and tiny head shake. According to nonverbal specialist Patti Wood, Trump was maintaining a courteous front while his inner self disagreed with his statements.
The performance didn’t end there. Donald Trump, in keeping with his dramatic tendencies, removed his hard helmet in the middle of Powell’s discussion on the costs.
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According to Traci Brown, a professional body language interpreter, it wasn’t just that he was getting too hot. The formalities were sufficient. He was essentially reclaiming the spotlight and letting everyone know who was in charge by doing that. To put it plainly, Trump made sure to demonstrate his authority.
LOL! At the Federal Reserve, Trump was recently questioned by a reporter: If you were a real estate developer, how would you handle the project manager who was overbudget?
I would fire Trump!
Powell appears incredibly uneasy.ROwXKatq2E on Twitter
July 24, 2025, Nick Sortor (@nicksortor)
However, when someone questioned if the Fed head could make amends, Trump gave Powell a theatrical pat on the back. That moment perfectly captured everything. It most certainly didn’t appear to be a buddy-buddy move.
Wood stated plainly that it was a form of punishment. Given how uncommon this type of force is, it’s very strange. Donaldson interpreted it as him asserting his authority and diverting attention. According to Brown, it was about rage and maintaining control.
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It was rather obvious what was happening when Donald Trump moved to block Jerome Powell from the reporters. Powell’s slouched shoulders and pursed lips said it all.
Breaking: On Thursday, President Trump will visit the Federal Reserve to see Jerome Powell’s $2.5 billion headquarters renovations.
Trump made the decision to attend personally after Powell tried to BLOCK White House personnel from visiting.
Powell is in serious trouble!www.twitter.com/VoKM36lWxK pictures
July 24, 2025, Nick Sortor (@nicksortor)
However, it turns out that this was merely another one of their sly little power struggles.
Trump continues to insist that he won’t fire Powell despite the slaps on the wrist, the heated staredowns, and some dubious budgetary estimates. At least not yet. Donald Trump asserted that he would act morally.
However, if you read the Federal Reserve room, Powell’s main desire seems to be to find a way out!
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