Some analysis suggests that CIA staffers attending the event were never invited to sit down and so remained standing throughout—including during any applause—which is customary protocol during presidential speeches. Some analysis also suggests that applause was led by White House team members attending the event rather than CIA staff.

• For example, one can see at the beginning and end of the full event video that at least the front rows of attendees appear to have remand standing throughout the speech.
• Sources say Trump's CIA visit made relations with intel community worse
• Did President Trump Bring a Cheering Crowd with Him to Visit the CIA?
• Donald Trump reportedly planted lackeys at CIA headquarters to give illusion of widespread support for his speech