Melania Trump has chosen not to accompany her husband, former President Donald Trump, to the White House on Wednesday. This decision comes despite an invitation from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, who had extended a joint invite to the Trumps. Traditionally, this visit would include the outgoing first lady hosting her successor for tea in the White House residence—a custom followed by Michelle Obama when she welcomed Melania in 2016. However, Melania has not met with Jill Biden since the contentious 2020 election, during which Donald Trump disputed the results.
According to sources, the first ladies have yet to communicate, even after the recent election. Their husbands have, however, engaged in a cordial phone call following the results. The last time Jill Biden and Melania Trump were in the same place was at Rosalynn Carter’s funeral in November of last year, where all living former first ladies attended.
Reports suggest that Melania may adopt a more limited role as first lady if Trump returns to office, possibly not residing in the White House full-time. As of now, she has not announced an agenda or hired staff, although she is reportedly preparing for a potential East Wing transition with assistance from John Rogers, a Goldman Sachs executive and member of the White House Historical Association board who advised her during her first term.
This situation mirrors the 2020 transition, when Trump declined to invite Biden to the Oval Office and delayed the transition process, a move echoed by Melania, who did not reach out to Jill Biden. The Bidens, however, have vowed to ensure a peaceful transition if Trump assumes the presidency again, with plans to attend his inauguration in January 2025.
