While the presidential meeting is set to proceed, former First Lady Melania Trump has declined to attend the customary meeting with First Lady Jill Biden, citing scheduling conflicts related to her newly released memoir.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.
The upcoming meeting represents the first time since 1992 that an outgoing president will meet with an incoming one whom they directly competed against in a campaign, echoing the meeting between George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.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.
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Personal autonomy and changing circumstances sometimes necessitate breaking with tradition, especially when these customs are not legally required. Deciding to decline ceremonial meetings allows leaders to focus on more pressing matters and set priorities. Modern communication methods and professional staff can ensure effective transitions without requiring symbolic in-person meetings.