Biden Welcomes Trump To White House Ahead Of Inauguration

US President Joe Biden on Monday hosted his successor, Donald Trump, at the White House in a gesture of courtesy ahead of Trump’s upcoming inauguration.

The outgoing president, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, received Trump and his wife, Melania, on the steps of the White House. The two couples exchanged brief remarks before proceeding inside for discussions.

Biden Issues Pre-Emptive Pardons For Fauci, Milley Ahead Of Trump Administration

In other news, on his final day in office, US President Joe Biden on Monday issued preemptive pardons to former COVID-19 advisor Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley to shield them from what he described as “politically motivated prosecutions” under the incoming Trump administration.

Biden also extended similar pardons to members, staff, and witnesses of the US House committee that investigated the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack by supporters of Donald Trump.

“These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions,” Biden said in a statement.

“These are exceptional circumstances, and I cannot in good conscience do nothing,” he added, underscoring concerns about the incoming administration’s rhetoric and actions.

Trump, who is set to be sworn in later on Monday, has repeatedly vowed “retribution” against political opponents. He has specifically threatened criminal prosecutions for individuals he deems responsible for undermining his first term.

Anthony Fauci, who became the face of the US pandemic response during Trump’s first term, clashed with Republicans over his blunt assessments of Covid-19.

His prominence and science-based approach made him a target for Trump allies, including billionaire Elon Musk, who publicly called for Fauci to face prosecution.

Former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley, also found himself in Trump’s crosshairs. Milley’s private remarks to journalist Bob Woodward, describing Trump as “fascist to the core” and “the most dangerous person to this country,” sparked outrage in Republican circles.

Milley further angered Trump by revealing that he had secretly called his Chinese counterpart after the Capitol attack to assure Beijing of US stability and intentions.

Trump responded by declaring on Truth Social that in earlier times, Milley’s actions would have warranted “DEATH!”

In response to Biden’s pardon, Milley expressed relief, saying, “I do not wish to spend whatever remaining time the Lord grants me fighting those who unjustly might seek retribution for perceived slights.”