In the high-stakes arena of political debates, much can be revealed through the art of nonverbal communication. Body language experts have the uncanny ability to decipher the true thoughts and feelings of individuals based on their gestures, expressions, and overall demeanor. The first debate of the 2024 election cycle for the Republican candidates was no exception.

Ron DeSantis: The Angry Contender

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis kicked off the debate, but according to body language expert Joe Navarro, he appeared the most nervous. Navarro observed that DeSantis’s lips quivered, and he seemed almost angry throughout his speech. His forceful and unmodulated voice made it difficult for viewers to discern his most important points. Navarro also noted DeSantis’s failure to smile, which may have impacted his likability. Furthermore, his furrowed glabella and emphatic hand gestures conveyed a sense of concern. Despite these findings, DeSantis managed to flash a small grin towards the end of the night, potentially swaying on-the-fence supporters.

Vivek Ramaswamy: The Comfortable Contender

In contrast to DeSantis, biotech honcho Vivek Ramaswamy exuded confidence and comfort during the debate. Navarro highlighted Ramaswamy’s consistent smiles, which conveyed ease on the stage. The precision grip, a gesture using the index finger and thumb to show command of a topic, was frequently employed by Ramaswamy. However, during a confrontation with Nikki Haley, his expression briefly transformed into a more aggressive grimace. This shift may have been triggered by Ramaswamy’s invasion of Haley’s personal space, which our brains interpret as a threat.

Nikki Haley: The Strong-Willed Contender

Former UN Ambassador and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley entered the stage in battle mode, according to Navarro’s analysis. Her tensed jaw demonstrated conviction, and her varied voice reflected nuanced feelings about the complex topics discussed. One of the highlights of the debate was Haley’s clash with Ramaswamy over US aid to Ukraine. Navarro recognized her strong will, passion, and years of experience, as conveyed through her body language. Haley made it clear through her gestures that she was not to be trifled with.

Asa Hutchinson: The Friendly Contender

Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson projected an image of friendliness and approachability on stage, as noted by Navarro. His easy smiles and unaggressive tones were camera-friendly, but they also limited his involvement in the more intense conversations. This, in turn, resulted in limited screen time for Hutchinson during the debate.

Doug Burgum: The Prop-Bringing Contender

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum stood out from the rest of the candidates by bringing a prop to the debate—a pocket-size copy of the US Constitution. However, Navarro suggested that this strong gesture was overshadowed by the more aggressive stances of other candidates, rendering it less impactful.

Tim Scott: The Engaging Contender

South Carolina Senator Tim Scott’s hand gestures captivated the audience, according to the body language expert. Navarro noted that Scott’s cadence, reminiscent of a church pastor, drew people in. Scott’s use of wide, palm-up hand gestures conveyed openness, and at one point, he even touched his chest—a universal signal of emotional sincerity. Overall, Scott projected strength, approachability, and gravitas.

Mike Pence: The Subdued Contender

Former Vice President Mike Pence’s debate performance started off slowly, as observed by Navarro. He began with small gestures and a relatively soft voice, which gave him a subdued appearance. However, as the evening progressed, Pence seemed to grow more comfortable. His gestures became more vigorous, his voice modulated, and he used his eyebrows as punctuation marks. Notably, when discussing his defense of the Constitution after the events of January 6th, his lip dramatically pulled to the left side of his face, revealing the emotional impact of the experience. Additionally, his tightly compressed lips conveyed a strong message of disagreement during a confrontation with Ramaswamy over the “culture wars.”

Chris Christie: The Confident Contender

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie exuded confidence during the debate, according to Navarro’s analysis. Christie’s measured gestures and modulated tone commanded attention. His posture appeared confident and relaxed. Christie’s use of laser-like eyes, narrowing his eyelids to emphasize his message and arching his eyebrows to intensify his words, further enhanced his overall presentation.

The Trump Card: Responses to the Former President

When asked if they would support former President Trump if he were convicted in any of his four criminal cases, the candidates’ responses revealed interesting aspects of their body language. Navarro pointed out that the speed of response often reflects the level of concern. Ramaswamy’s hand was the first to go up, followed by Haley, Scott, and Burgum. DeSantis and Christie wavered initially but eventually made their positions clear. Hutchinson, on the other hand, refused to raise his hand, which led to his scathing critique of Trump—a move that drew boos from the crowd.