President-elect Donald Trump made his first return to the White House on November 13 following his election victory, engaging in discussions regarding the impending transfer of power with his long-standing political adversary, President Joe Biden. At the outset of their meeting, which took place in front of a crackling fireplace, Biden warmly welcomed Trump, expressing his commitment to ensuring a seamless transition. Trump responded by affirming that the process would be as smooth as possible. This moment stood in stark contrast to the previous transfer of power four years prior, which was marred by tension and culminated in the unprecedented events of January 6 at the Capitol. The meeting highlighted the ongoing animosity between the two leaders, who have consistently criticized each other on a range of issues, including climate change, foreign policy, and trade.
Biden, at 81, has characterized Trump as a danger to democratic principles, while Trump, aged 78, has labeled Biden as ineffective, further complicating their political relationship, especially in light of Trump’s unfounded allegations of widespread electoral fraud following his defeat in the 2020 election. The motorcade of Trump passed through the heavily secured entrance of the White House, where he was welcomed in the Oval Office by Biden, the Democrat who triumphed over him in the 2020 presidential election. A large assembly of journalists congregated outside on the White House driveway, eagerly awaiting the significant occasion. Earlier in the day, Trump commemorated his success with Republican members of the House of Representatives, who appear poised to retain control of the chamber as the election results from November 5 begin to emerge. “Isn’t it wonderful to win? Winning is always a pleasure,” Trump remarked. “The House performed exceptionally well.”
