A hug gone wrong during a presidential rally is getting national attention—and even late-night laughs.

A Rally, a Hug, and a Mix-Up

On Wednesday, June 27, 2018, President Donald Trump held a campaign rally at Scheels Arena in Fargo, North Dakota. During the event, he called GOP Senate candidate Rep. Kevin Cramer to the stage to speak to the crowd.

After giving his remarks, Cramer turned to walk back toward the President—and that’s when it happened.

President Trump opened his arms, appearing to go in for a hug. Cramer, seeing the gesture, did the same. But just before they embraced, Trump quickly changed his posture, leaving both men in an awkward half-hug, half-handshake moment.

The whole thing was caught on camera by Forum photographer David Samson—frame by frame.

Late-Night Spotlight

It didn’t take long for the moment to make its way to national television.

On Thursday night, comedian Jimmy Fallon opened The Tonight Show with the clip, poking fun at the uncomfortable exchange in his monologue. The clip of the hug—now seen by millions—was shown alongside Fallon’s commentary, turning a political campaign stop into comedy material.

Twitter Reacts

Social media had its own take. The North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party tweeted the clip of Fallon’s segment, simply captioned: “Provided without comment.” The tweet quickly picked up likes and shares, adding more fuel to the viral moment.

A Race in the Spotlight

This all comes during a closely watched Senate race between Cramer and incumbent Democrat Sen. Heidi Heitkamp. With control of the Senate up for grabs, both parties are pouring attention and resources into North Dakota, making moments like this all the more visible.

Sometimes, even in the heat of a political race, it’s a simple hug—or lack of one—that captures the country’s attention.

Watch the hilarious video here:

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