Trump and Biden Meet at White House for Post-Election Transition

On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump and President Joe Biden met at the White House as part of the transition process following the 2024 presidential election. This meeting marks a significant step in the peaceful transfer of power, a tradition that Trump had previously broken in 2020 when he declined to invite then-President-elect Biden to the White House and skipped Biden’s inauguration.

The meeting, held in the Oval Office, is seen as a formality to ensure a smooth transition between the two administrations. Despite their bitter rivalry, the encounter is expected to be courteous. The last time the two leaders met face-to-face was during a debate in June, where they exchanged harsh criticisms.

President Biden extended an invitation to Trump as part of his commitment to preserving democratic norms and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that this meeting is important for the American people and reflects Biden’s belief in the norms of democracy.

Elon Musk, a key supporter of Trump’s 2024 campaign and newly appointed head of the Office of Government Efficiency, accompanied Trump to Washington. Musk is set to co-lead a new department aimed at dismantling government bureaucracy and restructuring federal agencies, highlighting his growing influence over the incoming administration.

In addition to the White House meeting, Trump is also scheduled to meet with House Republican leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson, as part of his visit to Washington. This comes as Republicans are on the verge of securing a majority in the House, which would give them control over the White House, Senate, and House.

The meeting between Trump and Biden is private, but reporters were allowed to capture the start of their sit-down. National security adviser Jake Sullivan indicated that the discussion would cover both domestic and foreign policy issues.