Justin Trudeau visited Donald Trump in the White House on Monday to discuss the future of Canada-U.S relations going forward. The visit marks the first time Trudeau and Trump have met face to face since Trump was elected President in November.
Citizens of both the U.S and Canada were watching the joint press conference closely to see what both leaders had to say about issues like free trade, national security, and of course the refugee crisis.
The day started out with Trudeau arriving at the White House and shaking hands with Trump while reporters looked on. But there was something that stood out about the interaction and Twitter did not waste any time first pointing it out, then making every joke under the sun. That’s because Trump is known for his… aggressive handshake style.
For example, when he met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump help the handshake for an awkwardly long 19 seconds. Granted, he might have been humouring the photographers and making sure everyone got their photo op, but he also has a habit of yanking when he shakes hands. As with everything else Trump does, his handshake style is now a subject of intense scrutiny.
Basically, Trudeau wasn't having Trump’s obvious attempt at dominance. He held his ground and even pulled right back, and Canadians noticed. Writer Stephen Marche tweeted, “I wonder who will play Trump in the heritage minute about ‘The Handshake’”. Some other tweets included @BrandyLJensen’s observation “Trudeau resisting Trump’s weird handshake is the biggest display of dominance in the history of Canada”.
And we can’t forget the now classic photo of Trudeau looking dubiously down at Trump’s outstretched hand before agreeing to shake it again for the photographers. This is how meme’s are born. Enjoy a few of the best below.
