Exclusive By: Kanwal Abidi.
Washington D.C. USA : Donald Trump made a victor’s return as ‘President-elect’ to Washington on Wednesday
November 13, visiting the White House for the Oval Office meeting with President Biden – thus cementing the post-election tradition. The White House Chief-of-Staff Jeff Zients and the incoming White House Chief-of-Staff Susie Wiles also attended the meeting. Trump flew in from Florida, arrived at a military base near the Capitol, meeting up with billionaire Elon Musk for a morning session with House Republicans as Trump prepares for a
potentially unified Republican government and sweep of power. Trump’s motorcade rolled through the heavily guarded White House gate and he was greeted in the Oval Office by Biden, a Democrat who defeated him in the 2020 election. Outside on the White House driveway, a massive crowd of journalists gathered in anticipation of the big event. President Biden committed to a smooth transition of power as President-elect Trump moves
quickly to build out his new administration. He believes in the norms, he believes in our institution, “he believes in the peaceful transfer of power," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said of Biden's decision to invite Trump. She spoke at a briefing for reporters on Tuesday. “Donald, congratulations,” Biden said, greeting Trump with a handshake and adding that he looked “forward to a smooth transition.” Trump made a similar pledge – “It will be as smooth as it can get and I very much appreciate that, Joe.” Trump expressed thanks to Biden for the invitation – one that Trump himself had not extended to Biden after losing the 2020 election.
“Thank you very much,” Trump said. “Politics is tough. And it’s, in many cases, not a very nice world. But it is a nice world today and I appreciate it very much.” Outside the White House gates, signs of the impending power transfer were evident with construction already under way for the stands for VIP guests to sit during the parade that will take place after Trump is inaugurated on Jan. 20. Although Biden intends to use the meeting to show continuity, the transition itself is partially stalled. Trump’s team, which has already announced some members of the incoming president's cabinet, has yet to sign agreements that would lead to office space and government equipment as well as access to government officials, facilities and information, according to the White House.
