US Presidential Election 2024: Joe Biden invites Donald Trump to White House for smooth transfer of power

United States President Joe Biden and the winner of 2024 US presidential election Donald Trump are set to meet at the White House this Wednesday (Nov 13), according to a statement from a White House representative on Saturday (Nov 9).

Trump, who won against his Democratic rival and incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris, is scheduled to assume office on January 20. "At President Biden’s invitation, President Biden and President-elect Trump will meet in the Oval Office on Wednesday," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced.

This meeting in the Oval Office is planned for 11:00 am (local time), with the weeks left for Trump’s return to office in January. In her concession speech, a day after Election Day (Nov 6), Harris addressed her supporters after the unexpected loss to Trump, saying, “This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves."

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Speaking at Howard University a visibly emotional Harris stated, "While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fuelled this campaign."

In his first public statement since the election, President Biden addressed the nation from the White House, emphasising that his administration would work to ensure a smooth transfer of power. 

“Yesterday, I spoke with President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his victory, and I assured him that I direct my entire administration to work with his team to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition. That’s what the American people deserve,” Biden said.

The US president concluded his address by reflecting on the work done during his time in office, saying, “Together, we’ve changed America for the better. Now, we have 74 days to finish the term, our term. Let’s make every day count. That’s the responsibility we have to the American people.”

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Exit polls showed that the economy and inflation were top concerns for American voters after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Biden, 81, had called off his re-election bid in July amid age-related concerns and push from members of his own party. 

Following the election results, Biden congratulated Trump and invited him to the White House, in stark contrast to how Donald treated Joe after he won the 2020 election. Notably, Trump never officially conceded to Biden when he lost in 2020. 

(With inputs from agencies)