DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

TOP STORIES

Latest News

Melania Trump Opting Out of White House Meeting with Jill Biden

 November 12, 2024

Melania Trump will not join her husband for a scheduled meeting at the White House with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, signaling a continuation of minimal contact between the former and current first ladies since the contentious 2020 election.

Mrs. Trump's absence from the traditional meeting underscores ongoing tensions and a break from first ladies' historical customs, as the Daily Mail reports.

The History of First Ladies' Transitions

It is customary for the outgoing first lady to host her successor at the White House, a tradition that Melania Trump did not uphold following the 2020 presidential election.

Instead, there has been a notable lack of interaction between Melania Trump and Jill Biden, beginning with the non-traditional transition four years ago.

Their last encounter was at former first lady Rosalynn Carter's funeral over a year ago, marking the extent of their direct communication in recent times.

Details of Upcoming White House Meeting

While the Bidens have extended a warm invitation to the Trumps for a meeting at the White House, only Donald Trump is expected to attend.

The Bidens have also announced plans to attend Trump's inauguration in January 2025, maintaining the protocol of peaceful transitions of power.

"The Bidens extended congratulations and a joint invite to the Trumps to meet at the White House," stated Jill Biden's office. This gesture is seen as an effort to bridge the political divide and ensure a smooth transition.

Looking Ahead: Melania Trump's Role in the New Term

Speculation about Melania Trump's involvement in her husband's potential second term has been rife, with reports suggesting she may not fully reside at the White House.

She is, however, preparing to establish an East Wing office, indicating some level of engagement in her role as first lady.

John Rogers, a senior executive from Goldman Sachs, is reportedly assisting Melania with staffing her East Wing office, suggesting a more structured approach compared to her earlier tenure.

Personal Life and Previous Engagements

Melania Trump, who is currently spending time in New York City while her son, Barron, attends New York University, has recently authored a memoir that achieved bestseller status.

Her limited involvement in the recent Trump campaign was noted, having spoken at only one rally and attended the Republican National Convention without delivering remarks.

Her presence was similarly limited during Donald Trump's ongoing legal challenges, further highlighting her discreet approach to the political spotlight.

Historical Context and Transition Traditions

Historically, the outgoing and incoming presidents and their spouses participate in joint activities during the transition, including a ride together to the inauguration. This tradition was not observed in 2020 when Donald Trump declined to participate in the customary activities with Joe Biden.

Melania's current decision to skip the White House meeting aligns with this previous departure from tradition, reinforcing the unique nature of the Trumps' approach to presidential transitions.

Conclusion: Melania's Ongoing Legacy

As the Trump administration prepares for a potential return to the White House, Melania Trump's role remains an intriguing aspect of the political landscape. Her choices continue to shape her legacy as a first lady who navigates her duties in a markedly non-traditional manner.

"Mrs. Trump is not going, and they have not spoken," a source familiar with the situation told DailyMail.com, highlighting the continued silence between the current and former first ladies.