Biden Welcomes President-Elect Trump to White House for Transition
Trump Returns to White House After Defeating Kamala Harris in Presidential Election
On Wednesday, President Joe Biden hosted President-Elect Donald Trump at the White House to discuss a smooth transition of power.
The meeting, held in the Oval Office, marked a significant moment of civility between the two leaders, contrasting with Trump’s refusal to acknowledge Biden’s victory in 2020.
Biden, who withdrew from the race in July, observed civility despite once criticizing Trump as a democratic threat.
Trump, now 78, defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent election.
Despite lingering tensions from the Capitol attack in 2021 and a divisive campaign, Trump expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and promised a seamless transfer of power.
Notably absent was incoming First Lady Melania Trump, though outgoing First Lady Jill Biden was present and extended her congratulations.
In private discussions, Biden is expected to urge Trump to continue support for Ukraine.
This meeting reinstated a broken transition tradition from 2020, when Trump refused to meet Biden post-election.
Currently, Trump retains significant influence over the Republican Party and suggests openness to a third term, despite constitutional limitations.
During his visit, Trump, joined by his prospective administration members including Elon Musk and Pete Hegseth, outlined his plans for rapid administrative formation.