A Picture is Worth 10,000 Words or Even an Entire Book

The scene, with this select group of former Presidents, Vice Presidents with their first and second ladies, second gentleman, as well as Biden and President Elect Trump, is priceless as not only a historic moment and record, but more for what it says about the strength of our system. Few nations can match us in this tradition of a peaceful transfer of power and this elite club where former leaders are remembered fondly despite policy disagreements.

Still, the raw feed of the dignitaries arriving, chatting, shaking hands, not shaking hands, looking at each other, not looking at each other, talking, not talking, the glances, the body language, the obvious affection and/or snubs between each pair, could be the subject of an entire book.

Not since the delegation of presidents went to Anwar Sadat’s funeral, has there been a gathering like this with so much back story.

Biden did swat Trump in his eulogy of Carter without mentioning him by name, but there other memorable moments:

Key Takeaways

Pence’s wife, Karen, refused to look at Trump or shake his hand.

Kamala didn’t look at anyone, but Doug

Bush tapped Obama on the stomach

Obama was enjoying himself, even with Trump

Melania looked miserable

Biden looked deep in thought

Trump couldn’t find his heart

Hillary was still seething from her loss

Gore and Quayle were just happy to be there

Laura Bush was sweet

Bill also looked happy

Mike Pence was polite to the man who wanted him hung.

Michele ducked the occasion as she didn’t want to sit next to Trump

Doug was in love

Jill Biden was cold to Kamala

It should be noted that most of these folks were in a “Green Room” prior to walking in that was highly choreographed. Many had previously interacted before their official entrance into the cathedral.

Watch the Raw Video to draw your own conclusions

The Bulwark