In what many regard as Carly Fiorina's best moment from the second Republican Presidential Primary debate (last night) - the former HP CEO was asked by CNN's Jake Tapper, "... In an interview last week in "Rolling Stone Magazine", Donald Trump said the following about you: 'Look at that face. Would anyone vote for that? Can you imagine that, the face of our next president?' Mr. Trump later said he was talking about your persona, not your appearance. Please feel free to respond what you think about HIS persona."
Ms. Fiorina answers, "You know it's interesting to me - Mr. Trump said that he heard Mr. Bush very clearly, and what Mr. Bush said. I think women all over this country heard very clearly what Mr. Trump said."
After an uncomfortable huge applause and long pause (13 seconds) - Trump responds, "I think she's got a beautiful face and I think she's a beautiful woman."
Throughout a good portion of this exchange, Ms. Fiorina has what many would describe as a stoic face. From a nonverbal perspective, what it indicates specifically though is her subtle-to-mild expression (and thus emotion) of disgust. She maintains this expression longer than most people could in such a scenario. Her doing so in this context projects tenaciousness, determination - and therefore a leadership-strength. Trump changes the orientation of his head/neck, direction of gaze and his torso. While Donald wavers - Carly is unwavering. This contrast alone speaks volumes.
Moreover Trump's expression in this same moment is one of an INsincere smile - what is known as a "Bitter Smile". While attempting to look amused, his primary emotion in this moment is regret. And although he has a ruddy complexion, in this instant it's a bit more reddened - and together with a clenched and thrusting jaw and dimpled chin betrays his accompanying feelings of anger.
See also:
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3311: Ben Carson to Donald Trump - "He's an Okay Doctor" - Trump's Body Language Faux Pas
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3310: Carly Fiorina's response to Donald Trump's, "Look at that Face!"
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3141: Carly Fiorina "Higher than 90%" Chances She's Running for President
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2640: Disgust at Denver area School Shooting - Body Language Tells
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2443: Kristen Wiig's Disgust & Fear Face - Graham Norton, Chris O'Dowd and Fly Eating
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3264: Hillary Clinton, Likability, Perceived Trustworthiness and Body Language
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3309: Delta State University Shooting (Mississippi) Suspect Shannon Lamb - Body Language Red Flags
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