Poker Tells of Donald Trump: Decoding the Magnate’s Strategies

Introduction to Donald Trump's Poker Tells

Donald Trump, a well-known figure in financial markets and politics, is also a poker player who has played poker quite seriously. But his subconscious tells can reveal much more than just his poker hand. Here, we'll explore the interesting and often contradictory tells from the man who claims to 'never [...] but doesn't mean what he says.'

Official and Nicknamed Tells of Donald Trump

1. Leaning In

When Donald Trump leans in towards the table, it is a significant poker tell for most players—it often means he is strong. However, when Trump leans in, especially during talk and with much talk, it’s likely a bluff. Trump is known for his intense Texas Hold'em style, and when he tells you his poker hand isn't as strong as it seems, he is probably trying to bluff you into folding.

Example:

The poker tells of a person who calls someone "terrific" indicate that the person either hates them or that person is a dictator. Similarly, when he leans in with a lot of talk, he is most likely bluffing and shoving all-in.

2. Open Palms/Palms Out

Open palms are usually a sign of honesty, but with Trump, it isn't the case. When Trump speaks with open palms, it’s a sign that he wants you to believe him. Any claims of him saying “not sure if I'm good” with palms up and out mean he really has a good hand. However, if he is bluffing, he will fold easily.

Example:

If he says “I think…” or “everybody…” he means himself, especially when he calls someone great or loves someone to death, it’s likely a bluff.

Actions Revealing Weak Hands

3. Hands Clasped Together in a High Steeple

When a player claps his hands together in a high steeple, it is a strong indicator of a very strong hand. However, for Trump, it is still a strong tell of anger and frustration. It means that he cannot win the hand.

4. Touching Face and Hair

Trump is not a heavy face or hair toucher and does not play with his ear or cover his mouth much. However, if he does, it is a sign that he is weak and might be holding JTs or a High Card Rag hand. He will likely fold to a large bet or shove.

Psychological Tells

5. Anger and Frustration

Players tend to show physical signs of anger and frustration when they have a poor hand. When Trump is beckoning or leaning back with arms folded, it means he has a strong hand. Conversely, if you notice him leaning back with arms folded, it's a sign of anger and frustration, indicating he knows he can't win.

6. Post-Flop Boredom Visuals

Post-flop, looking away or appearing bored, especially looking up or far away, indicates he isn't interested. If he's interested in anything other than the felt and chips, he has nothing to show.

Trump's poker tells can be as misleading as his word. However, understanding these tells can help you navigate his head games in the poker world.

Conclusion

The poker tells of Donald Trump can reveal much more than the strength of his hand; they can reveal his true intentions, his dishonesty, and his bluffing. While some of his behavioral patterns might be gimmicks, understanding these can still give you an edge in his games and real life.