Eric Trump Clarifies Barron’s Inauguration Exchange with Joe Biden
Eric Trump has finally addressed a viral moment involving his younger brother, Barron Trump, and President Joe Biden during the 2025 inauguration. Speaking on The Megyn Kelly Show podcast, Eric dismissed widespread speculation about what Barron said during the brief handshake with Biden.
A Polite Remark, Not a Crude One
The businessman emphasized that Barron’s comment was far more courteous than the crude phrases circulating online. “Barron’s the quietest Trump,” Eric said. “He’s a little shy, but he’s smart as hell.”
He added that his brother told him directly what he had said. “It was something very polite—congratulations or best of luck. Something respectful,” Eric explained. He insisted Barron would never use the offensive language suggested online. “He’s a nice guy… too courteous to actually go out there and say it,” Eric noted.
The Viral Moment
The interaction occurred just before Donald Trump delivered his final address as commander-in-chief. Footage showed Biden approaching Barron for a handshake, followed by a brief exchange. Yet the clip sparked intense online debate, with some claiming Barron had said something shocking.
One viral theory suggested Barron told Biden he was “done,” which quickly spread across social media as if confirmed.
Barron Trump attends the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. | Source: Getty Images
Expert Analysis
Forensic lip reader Jeremy Freeman later assessed the footage for LADbible, concluding that Biden likely greeted Barron normally, and Barron responded with a brief acknowledgement.
Meanwhile, communications coach Judi James offered additional context. She explained that Barron leaned toward Kamala Harris as part of a standard greeting sequence, and Biden’s facial shift simply reflected the end of the interaction, not a hidden message.
Confidence and Poise
Judi highlighted that Barron’s calm and confident demeanor may have fueled misconceptions. His gestures, including acknowledging applause and cupping his ear toward the crowd, projected presence and humor.
She also noted that Barron’s increasing public visibility plays a role. Often trailing his parents at events, he shakes hands and exchanges polite remarks, asserting his presence without overshadowing them.
Growing into Public Life
Barron, now 19 and a student at New York University, has taken on a more visible role at political events. Judi explained that his height and confidence enhance his formal presence, and his parents trust him to navigate these moments independently.
The handshake with Biden followed a forceful speech by Donald Trump, which criticized the outgoing administration. Observers noted Biden displayed a mix of discomfort and polite composure during the interaction.
The Takeaway
Eric Trump’s comments clarify that Barron’s viral moment was polite, respectful, and far from the crude claims circulating online. The exchange demonstrates Barron’s growing poise and ability to handle public appearances with tact, even under scrutiny.
