President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump met in the Oval Office on Wednesday, reviving a tradition that Trump had skipped in 2020.
Seated by a crackling fire, the two men shook hands in front of reporters and cameras.
Biden spoke first, emphasizing the importance of a “smooth transition” and assuring Trump, “We’ll do everything we can to make sure you’re accommodated.”
Trump expressed his appreciation, saying, “Politics is tough, often not a very nice world, but today it is. I appreciate it very much. This transition will be as smooth as it can be, and I’m grateful, Joe.”
They did not respond to questions.
The meeting lasted just under two hours before Trump departed. First lady Jill Biden greeted Trump upon his arrival at the White House, presenting him with a handwritten letter for Melania Trump, offering congratulations and expressing readiness to assist with the transition.
The first lady’s office confirmed that a joint invitation had been extended to the Trumps to visit the White House, though Melania Trump did not accompany her husband to Washington.
“Her husband’s return to the Oval Office to begin the transition process is encouraging, and she wishes him great success,” Melania Trump’s office stated.
In 2016, Michelle Obama hosted Melania Trump at the White House when then-President Barack Obama invited Trump shortly after the election. The two men had met for 90 minutes, with Obama describing the conversation as “excellent.”
Vice President Kamala Harris did not attend Wednesday’s meeting. However, White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients and incoming Chief of Staff Susie Wiles were present.
After his 2020 election loss, Trump had broken two longstanding traditions demonstrating a peaceful transfer of power. He declined to invite then-President-elect Biden to the White House and chose not to attend Biden’s inauguration, departing Washington hours before the ceremony began.
Those customs were reinstated Wednesday as Trump returned to the White House.
