Joe Biden welcomes back Donald Trump into White House, says he'd 'make sure' of smooth transition

WASHINGTON, DC: President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump met at the White House for a historic meeting on Wednesday, November 13.

The gathering marked the beginning of a transition period as Trump prepares to return to the Oval Office in January 2025.

Despite concerns that the encounter might be tense, the two leaders shared a cordial moment with a roaring fire in the Oval Office, setting a cooperative tone for the upcoming transition.

Joe Biden warmly greets Donald Trump back at White House

Joe Biden welcomed Donald Trump with the words, “Well, Mr President-elect, former president, Donald,” as they sat together in front of the fire.

Extending his congratulations, Biden added, “Welcome back,” before the two men shook hands.

Trump, in return, expressed his appreciation, noting, “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,” he said, with Biden at his side.

During their conversation, Biden assured Trump of a smooth transition, stating he would “make sure” that his predecessor and successor is fully accommodated.

Trump responded positively to Biden's assurance, remarking, “It will be as smooth as it can get, and I very much appreciate that, Joe.”

Jill Biden hands over congratulatory letter to Donald Trump for Melania Trump

First Lady Jill Biden joined her husband in greeting Donald Trump upon his arrival, though Melania Trump was not present which her office also confirmed amid reports she won't be performing a full-time role as the First Lady.

“She gave Mr Trump a handwritten letter of congratulations for Mrs Trump, which also expressed her team’s readiness to assist with the transition,” a White House official said referring to Jill, as reported by CNN.

Trump traveled to Washington, DC, from Palm Beach, arriving at Andrews Air Force Base on Wednesday morning.

Donald Trump celebrates GOP's victory and hints at future ambitions

Prior to his meeting with Joe Biden, Donald Trump addressed a gathering of House Republicans at a hotel on Capitol Hill, where he shared his excitement over the recent election results.

During his address to House Republicans, Trump celebrated the GOP’s success in taking control of the Senate and their anticipated majority in the House, saying, “Isn’t it nice to win?” to enthusiastic applause. “It’s nice to win,” Trump added.

Jokingly, he also hinted at his openness to serving a third term, saying, “I suspect I won’t be running again unless you say, ‘He’s so good we’ve got to figure something else out,’” Daily Mail reported.