TLDR:
• Trump and Biden set for lunch meet
• ‘Very respectful’ phone call
• Biden, Harris discuss smooth transition
WASHINGTON, D.C./MAR-A-LAGO (The Thursday Times) — President-elect Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden will be sitting down for lunch soon, a plan emerging from a series of ‘very respectful’ post-election calls. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris reached out to congratulate Trump, underscoring a shared commitment to a seamless transfer of power. The high-stakes phone calls signal an easing of tensions in U.S. politics, at least temporarily, following Trump’s return to office in a historic election win.
Trump has been actively engaged in outreach, reportedly speaking with over 70 world leaders in the aftermath of his victory, establishing international connections that he claims will underpin his policies moving forward. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was among the leaders to congratulate Trump, while Russian President Vladimir Putin remains one he has yet to contact. Trump also conversed with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, hinting at significant future discussions without delving into specifics.
In a message highlighting unity, Biden assured Trump of his support for a smooth transition. Both Biden and Harris have expressed intent to cooperate, which aligns with Harris’s public commitment to upholding a more collaborative approach this time around. This call for civility and process marks a change from the contentious 2020 transition period, hinting at a stronger bipartisanship in the coming months.
In line with his campaign promises, Trump has emphasized his focus on border security, aiming to implement one of the largest deportation efforts in U.S. history. His goal remains to streamline legal pathways for immigration while intensifying measures against unlawful entry, a policy he asserts is necessary for national integrity. Trump has pointed to his election mandate as validation for these extensive plans, dismissing concerns over potential costs.
Following a decisive win in key swing states, Trump secured his path to the presidency with a strong popular vote and legislative support in Congress. His return to the White House has brought renewed attention to conservative goals, with immigration and national security emerging as focal points. Trump’s victory speech underscored his intent to act swiftly on policy issues, reinforcing his role as a ‘mandate-driven’ leader looking to realign American policies both domestically and internationally.