Melania Trump expected to skip Wednesday White House meeting with Jill Biden
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Pres. Joe Biden Hosts Pres.-Elect Donald Trump at the White House
Above: Pres. Joe Biden meets with Pres.-elect Donald Trump at the Oval Office of the White House on Nov. 13, 2024 in Washington, DC. Image copyright: Alex Wong/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Pres.-elect Donald Trump met Pres. Joe Biden in the Oval Office Wednesday after the incumbent US leader invited the former president to the White House for a traditional transition meeting.
They reportedly discussed plans for a peaceful transition of power when Trump takes the oath of office for a second time on Jan. 20. "It will be as smooth as it can get, and I very much appreciate that, Joe," Trump, 78, told Biden, 81.
The Spin
Republican narrative
Trump's heroic return to the White House is a symbolic moment for the MAGA movement, having engineered the greatest political comeback in American history. Despite the best attempts of the deep state establishment, it is clear that nothing could stop Pres. Trump from returning to office to finish what he started. After both Biden and Harris accused Trump of lie after lie for years and years, today will be a bitter day for Democrats and a moment of celebration for freedom-loving Americans.
Democratic narrative
The White House transition meeting represents a crucial tradition that reinforces the strength of American democracy and ensures continuity of government operations. These discussions between incoming and outgoing leaders have historically helped bridge political divisions and demonstrate national unity. The practice has proven valuable for smooth transitions, and it is an act of patriotism that Biden has chosen to forgive Trump's actions in 2020 and prioritize country over party today.