Trump, Biden Meet at White House, Vow Smooth Transition of Power Amid Political Tensions
President Joe Biden hosted President-elect Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, marking their first meeting since Trump’s victory in the recent election. The meeting, held in the Oval Office, was a significant step in the ongoing transfer of power as Biden, 81, pledged a smooth transition to his successor, despite a history of sharp political clashes between the two men.
“Welcome, welcome back,” Biden greeted Trump as they sat before a fireplace in the Oval Office. In a display of unity, he assured Trump of a “smooth as it can get” transition, underscoring his commitment to upholding democratic traditions. Trump, seated beside Biden, expressed his appreciation, saying he looked forward to the process.
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The high-profile meeting between the outgoing Democrat and the incoming Republican marked a notable shift from the antagonistic exchanges they had shared over the years. Their respective parties have long held opposing stances on key issues, from climate policy to foreign relations. Biden has frequently criticized Trump’s approach as a threat to democracy, while Trump has repeatedly labeled Biden as ineffective.
Earlier in the day, Trump celebrated his electoral win with Republicans in the House of Representatives, a victory he enthusiastically described as “nice to win,” alluding to the party’s success in retaining control of the chamber. His motorcade then proceeded to the White House, passing a large crowd of journalists gathered to witness the historic event.
The meeting carried a symbolic weight, given the tensions surrounding the 2020 election, which Trump had previously claimed was marred by widespread fraud. Notably, Trump had not extended the same courtesy to Biden when he won the presidency in 2020. However, Biden’s decision to host Trump at the White House underscores his commitment to peaceful transition and respect for institutional norms, according to White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre.
Outside the White House gates, preparations for Trump’s inauguration on January 20 were already underway, with construction beginning on the parade stands for VIP guests.
Yet, the transition process has been only partially initiated. Trump’s team, having announced some members of his upcoming cabinet, has yet to finalize agreements that would secure office space, government resources, and access to federal facilities. Brian Vance, a spokesperson for Trump’s transition, confirmed ongoing discussions with the Biden administration to finalize these arrangements in compliance with the Presidential Transition Act.
Valerie Smith Boyd, director of the Center for Presidential Transition, emphasized the importance of this agreement, noting that it includes ethics requirements to prevent profiting from transition knowledge and ensures a smooth engagement with federal agencies.
Although the two leaders’ discussion points were not disclosed, the topics likely included foreign policy, with Biden expected to urge Trump to maintain U.S. support for Ukraine in its war with Russia. Trump has pledged to end the conflict quickly, though he has yet to outline specific plans.
The meeting also served as a symbolic conclusion to the contentious relationship between Biden and Trump, who last met during a debate in June. Following Biden’s departure from the 2024 race due to health concerns, Vice President Kamala Harris had assumed the Democratic nomination but ultimately lost to Trump in a short campaign.
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