Social media users and critics ridiculed the thumb-grip as a representation of emotional detachment, even making jokes about a “sliding scale” for physical affection. Others drew attention to Trump’s appearance, pointing out that his hand was bruised.
The former First Lady refuted the public’s interpretations of these moments in her 2024 memoir, Melania, claiming that they were due to pragmatic rather than private concerns. However, the awkward gestures still draw attention from the public, illustrating how, in the digital age, personal relationships in politics are now closely examined and frequently turned into memes.