Melania Trump, the first lady, made headlines when she joined President Donald Trump on the White House balcony for a public appearance during the Fourth of July celebration. The pair looked close, even sharing an embrace and doing the famous “Trump Dance.” President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a comprehensive tax and spending package, into law at the same time as the event. Some viewers questioned Melania’s comfort level during the exchange, while others analyzed her body language and praised the couple’s performance.

Video from the occasion sparked widespread conjecture that Melania was fending off Trump’s advances. She seemed to avoid kissing him back or push him away, according to a lot of online commenters. Her body language was characterized by some as tense, with intentional physical retreat and avoidance of eye contact. With critics citing comparable instances from previous events, such as Trump’s election night and inauguration, these responses rekindled long-standing rumors that Melania is hesitant when making public displays of affection with her husband.

However, supporters defended the couple, lauding Melania as the most beautiful First Lady and referring to them as “the most presidential couple.” Conspiracy theories about the so-called “Fake Melania,” which holds that a body double occasionally represents the First Lady at public events, were also resurrected by the incident. Her big hats, sunglasses, and subtle facial expressions are all mentioned in these theories.

Events at West Palm Beach, Pope Francis’ funeral, and a theater show in Washington, D.C. are notable appearances that stoked this theory. Trump has previously denied the rumors, labeling them “deranged,” and blamed media manipulation.

Despite the speculation, neither Melania nor her representatives have commented publicly.