Bidens Welcome Trumps, Revive Peaceful Transition Tradition/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden welcomed President-elect Donald Trump and Melania Trump to the White House for a traditional pre-inauguration tea. The gesture restored norms of a peaceful transfer of power absent during Trump’s departure in 2021. The day included ceremonies, luncheon plans, and global reactions.
Biden Welcomes Trump Quick Looks
- Bidens greeted the Trumps on a red carpet at the White House.
- A private tea restored traditions of peaceful presidential transitions.
- Biden wrote a farewell letter to Trump but declined to share details.
- Putin congratulated Trump, expressing interest in improved U.S.-Russia relations.
- Flags across the U.S. adjusted for both inauguration and Jimmy Carter’s passing.
Bidens Welcome Trumps, Revive Peaceful Transition Tradition
Deep Look
Bidens Welcome Trumps to White House, Restoring Peaceful Transition Traditions
Introduction: A Tradition Revived
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden welcomed President-elect Donald Trump and Melania Trump to the White House on Monday, continuing the long-standing tradition of a peaceful transfer of power. The Trumps arrived following a service at St. John’s Episcopal Church and were greeted on a gold-trimmed red carpet.
“Welcome home,” Biden said to Trump as the president-elect stepped out of the car. Biden placed a hand on Trump’s arm, escorting him inside for a private tea—a gesture underscoring the importance of unity during a divisive period in U.S. politics.
Restoring a Historic Custom
This meeting restores a tradition dating back to 1837, when Martin Van Buren and Andrew Jackson established the custom of the outgoing and incoming presidents meeting at the White House before the inauguration. Notably, Trump had skipped this tradition in 2021, refusing to invite Biden to the White House after his defeat.
The private tea also included First Ladies Jill Biden and Melania Trump, providing a moment for dialogue before the swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol.
Biden’s Farewell Letter
As part of another presidential tradition, Biden left a handwritten note for Trump in the Oval Office desk. While Biden declined to disclose its contents, the gesture follows Trump’s decision to leave Biden a letter in 2021 despite tensions between the two.
Inauguration Day Ceremonies
The swearing-in ceremony, moved indoors due to extreme cold, will be followed by an inaugural luncheon featuring a gourmet menu of Chesapeake Crab Cake, Angus Ribeye Steak, and Minnesota Apple Ice Box Terrine. Hosted in the National Statuary Hall at the Capitol, the luncheon brings together over 200 dignitaries, including Supreme Court justices, Cabinet designees, and congressional leaders.
Global Reactions: Putin Congratulates Trump
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Trump ahead of the inauguration, emphasizing the potential for renewed U.S.-Russia relations. Speaking during a Security Council video call, Putin expressed hope for direct communication with Trump’s administration, citing shared goals like preventing World War III and achieving a lasting peace in Ukraine.
“We hear Trump’s statements about restoring contacts with Russia, and we welcome such an approach,” Putin said, adding that any peace settlement must account for Russian interests.
Flags and Symbolism
New York Governor Kathy Hochul directed flags to be raised to full-staff for the inauguration before returning them to half-staff on Tuesday in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who recently passed away. Hochul framed the decision as a celebration of America’s democratic tradition.
Celebrity and Menu Highlights
The inaugural festivities have drawn high-profile attendees and a luxurious dining experience. Guests, including Supreme Court justices and congressional leaders, will enjoy a menu highlighting regional American cuisine and wines from Monticello.
Conclusion: A Renewed Commitment to Tradition
The Bidens’ welcome of the Trumps marks a return to the customs of a peaceful presidential transition. With ceremonies, global attention, and symbolic gestures, the day underscores the enduring strength of American democracy, even in a deeply polarized era.
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