Biden Tells Trump ‘Welcome Back’ in First Meeting Since Election
In their first meeting since the presidential election, President Joe Biden acted friendly toward President-elect Donald Trump, telling him “welcome back.”
Speaking in the Oval Office for almost two hours, the men, who appeared friendly towards each other, discussed plans to ensure that a peaceful transfer of power be made. Biden expressed “looking forward” to “having a smooth transition.” He also ensured Trump that all of his accommodations would be taken care of.
“Well Mr. President-elect, Donald, congratulations. I look forward to having a smooth transition,” said Biden, per the Daily Mail.
“Politics is tough, and in many cases it’s not a nice world, but it is a nice world today,” Trump said in response. “It’ll be as smooth as it can get, and I very much appreciate it, Joe.”
“You’re welcome,” Biden replied.
Biden was not the only one in attendance. His chief of staff, Jeff Zients, was also present, along with Susie Wiles, Trump’s incoming chief of staff.
First Lady Jill Biden was also in the room, welcoming Trump and passing him a handwritten note addressed to his wife, Melania Trump, who declined to attend a meeting with her, as is tradition, due to the raid on Mar-a-Lago in August 2022.
The letter congratulated the Trumps on winning the presidential election and emphasized their preparations to ensure a peaceful transition.
During the lengthy meeting, Vice President Kamala Harris was not mentioned.
The relaxed tone of the meeting was a stark contrast to their June 27 debate, where both men traded attacks. It also differed sharply from Biden’s frequent, intense rhetoric, often labeling his opponent as a threat to democracy.
Social media users also noticed the dynamics between the two men.
“He appears to be very happy,” wrote comedian Terrance Williams.
“Biden never looks more happy than when he’s with Trump,” wrote commentator Chandler Crump.
Outside of the White House, journalists waited, hoping to receive word on the contents of the meeting. Trump supporters were also waiting to see Trump’s motorcade pass through, per the New York Post.
This was the first meeting between the two presidents since they attended the 9/11 ceremony in New York City two months ago.
The meeting with Biden follows Trump getting quick to work, preparing for his return to the White House. The future president has been busy assembling his cabinet, a task which he has not taken lightly.
Prior to his meeting, Trump met with House Republicans at a hotel on Capitol Hill.
“Isn’t it nice to win? It’s nice to win,” he said, receiving applause from his fellow Republicans. “I suspect I won’t be running again unless you say, ‘He’s so good, we gotta figure something else out.’”
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