Staff Reports
The absence of Melania Trump during the recent meeting at the White House between President Biden and Donald Trump has raised eyebrows, and it seems clear that the former first lady has her priorities straight. As her husband gears up for a new chapter in the Oval Office, she extended her well wishes from a safe distance. In what can only be described as a classic chess move, her office took to X to express encouragement for Trump’s return and offer some choice thoughts on the media’s tendency to spread misinformation.
While President Biden and Trump were shaking hands for the cameras, Mrs. Trump was presumably busy engaging in more meaningful pursuits—perhaps crafting a sequined “Make America Great Again” jacket or perfecting her Slovenian culinary skills. Her message didn’t mince words as it addressed those shadowy “unnamed sources” in the media who can’t seem to resist spinning wild tales about her family. Calling for discernment among news sources seems like a responsible recommendation, especially at a time when the truth is an endangered species.
Biden and Trump’s meeting was supposed to be a shining example of “democracy in action,” with the two leaders embracing the game of political musical chairs. This was Trump’s first return to the White House since he exited stage left in January 2021 after the tumultuous 2020 election. It is certainly a curious turn of events that brings to mind the old saying about how history tends to repeat itself—it appears to be no different now as the political circus continues.
Former first lady Melania Trump didn't attend the Wednesday meeting between President Biden and her husband, President-elect Donald Trump, at the White House. https://t.co/yX2aULqACy
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 13, 2024
First Lady Jill Biden tried her best to play the accommodating hostess, presenting a handwritten letter to Trump, ostensibly from Melania, which may or may not have included a few witty jabs on her end. It’s a tradition that seems to hinge on the concept of civility, something that has turned into an ironic punchline in the current political climate. Why should Melania dive headfirst into a staged event that feels more like a lobbyist meet-and-greet than a genuine welcome?
One can only reflect on the 2016 transition where Michelle Obama hosted Melania for tea—a picturesque moment of unity. However, Mrs. Trump didn’t appear during the last transition, perhaps due to Trump’s epic campaign against what he called a “rigged election.” Now one has to wonder: will the script flip again, and will Melania eventually decide that the fun and games in Washington are not worth the White House’s wallpaper? Either way, she seems to have her eyes on bigger, more important things—namely, participating in the ongoing quest to drain the swamp while ensuring the truth prevails.
