Updated: Trump To Meet Biden
President-Elect Donald Trump to Meet with President Biden in Oval Office, Reviving Tradition
In a symbolic gesture of peaceful transition, President Joe Biden has invited President-Elect Donald Trump to the Oval Office, reviving a tradition that Trump himself skipped in 2020. This meeting marks a significant moment in the transfer of power, as Biden seeks to ensure a smooth handover despite their strained relationship.
The two leaders have a complex history, with Biden campaigning against Trump twice and winning in 2020. Their sole debate in June 2024 ultimately led to Biden’s exit from the presidential race. However, in a display of commitment to democratic norms, Biden phoned Trump post-election to congratulate him and extend the White House invitation.
Their meeting today is a departure from Trump’s refusal to accept the 2020 election results and his decision not to invite Biden to the Oval Office. In contrast, former President Barack Obama hosted Trump in 2016, just two days after Trump’s victory. That meeting showcased a cordial atmosphere, with Trump praising Obama as a “very good man” and expressing eagerness to work together.
Obama emphasized the importance of a peaceful transition, stating, “I believe that it is important for all of us, regardless of party and regardless of political preferences, to now come together, work together, to deal with the many challenges that we face.” Trump reciprocated, describing their meeting as an honor and expressing his desire to
