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In their first appearance together since the Democrats' significant loss in the 2024 election, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris attended a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on Veterans Day. This solemn event marked Harris's first public sighting since conceding the presidential race to Donald Trump on November 6.

The ceremony, held at the historic burial ground across the Potomac River from Washington, saw both Biden and Harris maintaining a composed demeanor. The pair, dressed in dark suits, placed their hands on their hearts during the tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This setting, the final resting place for two presidents, generals from all major U.S. wars, and numerous other military personnel, underscores the event's significance.

Earlier the same day, President Biden hosted a gathering at the White House to honor veterans. However, the Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington carried additional weight as it was the first time the president and vice president were seen publicly together following the election loss.

Though there was limited interaction between Biden and Harris, Kamala Harris was seen sharing a brief smile with her husband, Doug Emhoff, who was seated beside First Lady Jill Biden. After the ceremony, President Biden delivered a speech at Arlington's Memorial Amphitheater, expressing gratitude to veterans for their service and sacrifice.

The event takes place amid ongoing internal discussions within the Democratic Party, as members seek to understand the reasons behind the electoral defeat. Some party members have pointed to Biden’s initial decision to run for re-election at 81, despite previously suggesting he would serve as a transitional figure to the next generation.

Adding to the political developments, President Biden is set to host Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday. Trump has already begun assembling his new administration, naming Tom Homan as his "border czar" and appointing right-wing congresswoman Elise Stefanik as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Despite Trump’s self-portrayal as a strong supporter of the military, he has faced criticisms from his former chief of staff, retired General John Kelly, who claimed Trump privately disparaged U.S. servicemembers.

The Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington thus becomes a poignant backdrop to the ongoing political transitions and reflections within the Democratic Party.