Clinton debate prep included ‘Trump hug’ diversion tactic (VIDEO)
Donald Trump’s strange manners mean his short tenure as US president is already well-stocked with awkward political encounters. Now, it transpires that ahead of last year’s presidential debates, Hillary Clinton, his Democratic rival, was working on ways to avoid one habit in particular – his ‘hug’.
READ MORE: Trump shuns shaking Merkel's hand during Oval Office encounter (VIDEO)
Former Clinton aide Philippe Reines posted footage on social media Friday of the former US secretary of state apparently practising for a debate with Trump. The clip shows Clinton in a room with two microphone podiums, with Reines appearing to mimic Trump’s wave and greeting.
At one point Clinton seems to try to ‘high-five’ Reines before running away from a strong embrace.
Not easy to avoid the unwanted Trump hug, sometimes it even takes practice...
— Philippe Reines (@PhilippeReines) May 19, 2017
A favorite moment from debate prep (9/24/16): pic.twitter.com/JAAHaqKFoa
I burst out laughing when I saw this video this morning. Hope it brightens your day. https://t.co/CEcdoaQUuC
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) May 19, 2017
READ MORE: Trump’s awkward handshake with Trudeau becomes instant meme
Trump has garnered attention for his unorthodox greetings with world leaders, including a 19-second handshake with Japan’s Shinzo Abe and a strange almost-kiss with his own Vice President Mike Pence.
In January this year, Trump was also photographed holding hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May during talks at the White House.
