In a historic moment, President Biden warmly welcomed his successor, Donald Trump, at the White House, ensuring a smooth power transition. Trump expressed gratitude for the amicable meeting, contrasting it with the tumultuous events of his prior defeat. Key foreign policy discussions, particularly regarding Ukraine, were planned, while Trump celebrated his election victory with Republican leaders. As he prepares for his inauguration, Trump hints at leveraging congressional support despite the constitutional implications of his previous term.
In a historic moment, US President Biden extended a warm handshake to his newly elected successor, Donald Trump, during their meeting in Washington, ensuring a seamless transfer of power. “Politics can be challenging,” Trump remarked, “but today, it feels like a beautiful world.”
Just one week following the presidential election, the outgoing president, Joe Biden, welcomed Trump, who emerged victorious, at the White House. The 81-year-old Biden greeted his long-time opponent with a firm handshake and a friendly “Welcome back” as they convened in the Oval Office, with a cozy fireplace setting the scene. Biden reassured Trump of a structured transition of power.
In response, Trump expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the importance of a smooth handover. “While politics can often be harsh and unappealing, today is a beautiful day,” he reflected, appreciating the moment.
Insights from Kerstin Klein, ARD Washington
This encounter starkly contrasted the tumultuous events of four years prior when Trump rejected a peaceful transition after his election defeat. Breaking with tradition, he did not welcome Biden and skipped the inauguration, instead propagating unfounded claims of electoral fraud, which he continues to assert. This chaos ultimately led to the Capitol riot incited by his ardent supporters on January 6, 2021.
Now, as the next president, Trump is eager to appoint a loyal team to his administration swiftly.
Key Foreign Policy Discussions Ahead
Interestingly, future First Lady Melania Trump was absent from this reception, a pattern consistent with her limited appearances during her husband’s campaign. Notably, she primarily resided in New York during Trump’s initial term (2017-2021). Outgoing First Lady Jill Biden welcomed Trump warmly and presented him with a letter congratulating his wife, as announced by the White House.
During their private discussion, only Biden’s Chief of Staff Jeff Zients and Trump’s incoming Chief of Staff Susie Wiles were present. Biden aimed to address pivotal foreign policy matters with Trump, particularly focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
So far, only one position in Trump’s forthcoming cabinet has been confirmed, alongside indications of who will not be part of it.
A Resounding Triumph for the Republican Party
For Trump, this visit marked a significant victory. After leaving office, his visits to the capital had been infrequent. Now, he celebrated his election win amid applause from leading Republicans in Congress before his meeting with Biden. Trump received a warm welcome near the Capitol, where he delivered a brief speech praising the party’s achievements, accompanied by tech mogul Elon Musk, who is anticipated to take on an advisory role.
Attending reporters noted that Trump hinted to Congress members about not running for president again unless they take specific actions. He alluded to the constitutional limit of two presidential terms, whether consecutive or separated, a unique situation considering his previous term.
As he prepares for his inauguration on January 20, Trump is expected to leverage the support of the Republican majority in both chambers of Congress, entering office with considerable influence.