Vice President Kamala Harris got under former President Trump's skin during Tuesday's debate, according to body language expert Susan Constantine. Trump’s reactions showed visible frustration throughout the night.
This debate, held in Philadelphia, was their first time sharing the stage. Many thought Harris had a stronger performance, while Trump struggled more than usual. Harris repeatedly provoked Trump, causing him to grow increasingly agitated.
Constantine told Fox News Digital that Harris knew how to press Trump’s buttons, such as criticizing his rally crowd sizes. Each time she did, Trump responded defensively, which played into her strategy.
"He fell for every one of her tactics," Constantine said. "When she poked the bear, he growled back." One jab from Harris claimed people leave Trump’s rallies early, while Trump shot back that his crowds are record-breaking.
According to Constantine, Harris kept pushing Trump’s weak spots. Rather than sticking to the debate, Trump spent much of his time defending himself, which didn’t help his performance.
"You could see his frustration," Constantine added. "At one point, his body slumped, his expression showed disgust. He was really angry at her." Harris’ smiles showed she knew she had him cornered.
Constantine noted Trump’s visible anger, highlighted by his tone and facial expressions. His lips stayed pressed, his voice tense. "She knew she got him," Constantine said, pointing out Harris' smile as a victory signal.
Harris’ long smiles were meant to provoke Trump further, Constantine explained. "Real smiles don’t last long," she said. Harris used this smile when dismissing Trump’s remarks, a tactic Constantine called condescending.
There was a clear contrast between the two. Trump took a serious tone, while Harris appeared relaxed. In the beginning, Harris’ head tilts and crossed arms reflected what Constantine described as a "superiority stance."
Her hand gestures and direct eye contact with the camera showed confidence, Constantine said. "She played it musically perfect," she added, suggesting Harris had been well-coached.
However, Harris faltered when asked about abortion restrictions. Constantine noted her body language shifted as she avoided a direct answer, a sign of discomfort.
Despite that moment, Harris earned points for confidently shaking Trump’s hand before the debate. "She hesitated slightly, but then went for it," Constantine remarked, calling the debate a "boxing match" where Harris had the upper hand.