Trump and Biden Schedule Oval Office Meeting for Wednesday
ICARO Media Group
**Trump and Biden to Meet in the Oval Office Wednesday**
President-elect Donald Trump is set to meet with President Joe Biden in the Oval Office on Wednesday at 11 a.m., according to an announcement from the White House on Saturday. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, stated that the meeting is at the invitation of President Biden, with further details to be provided.
In parallel, incoming first lady Melania Trump has been invited to meet with first lady Jill Biden, although the specific timing for this encounter remains undetermined. An East Wing official conveyed this information to CNN.
Coordination for this significant meeting has been handled by Trump's incoming chief of staff, Susie Wiles, and Biden's chief of staff, Jeff Zients, who have been in contact throughout the week. Sources familiar with the process noted that the conversations between the two teams were straightforward and uncomplicated. For months, Wiles and Zients have engaged in discussions on topics, including the first assassination attempt against Trump and matters of Secret Service protection.
Biden called Trump the day after the election to offer his congratulations on Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris and extended the invitation for the White House visit. According to an administration official, Biden emphasized his commitment to a smooth transition and the importance of national unity.
Trump mentioned on Thursday that he and Biden had agreed to have lunch together soon, sharing with NBC News that their phone conversations were pleasant and respectful.
Traditionally, the outgoing president hosts the incoming president after the election to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power. However, in 2020, Trump did not adhere to this custom as he contested the election results, citing unfounded claims of voter fraud, nor did he attend Biden's inauguration in 2021. Similarly, the current first lady typically hosts the incoming first lady, a tradition followed by Michelle Obama in 2016 when she welcomed Melania Trump to the White House for tea and a tour.
In his remarks on Thursday, Biden alluded to the previous lack of a transition, outlining steps for a smoother transfer of power not offered to him following his 2020 victory. He reiterated his acceptance of the election results, stressing the importance of respecting the country's choice.