WASHINGTON: President Joe Biden will attend the inauguration of the next U.S. president in January, whether the victory goes to Vice President Kamala Harris or former President Donald Trump. The White House confirmed Biden’s commitment to the tradition on Wednesday, less than a week before the 2024 election.
White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized Biden’s belief in upholding the nation’s democratic principles. “This president believes in the peaceful transfer of power, and that’s what you’re going to see this president do,” she stated. The peaceful handover of power is a deeply rooted American tradition, with outgoing presidents typically attending their successor’s inauguration at the U.S. Capitol. By attending, Biden intends to reinforce this tradition and demonstrate respect for the electoral process.
Trump’s Absence in 2021 Broke Tradition
In 2021, Trump made headlines by breaking from this tradition. After a contentious election and persistent claims of voter fraud, Trump refused to attend Biden’s swearing-in ceremony. On the morning of January 20, he departed the White House hours before Biden took the oath of office. Instead of attending the inauguration, Trump boarded a helicopter and left Washington, becoming the first outgoing president in over a century to skip the event.
Trump’s decision marked a stark departure from the longstanding norm. Traditionally, outgoing presidents have attended the inaugural event to symbolize unity and the peaceful transfer of power, even after bitterly fought elections.
Harris and Biden’s Differences on Campaign Remarks
Biden’s decision to attend the inauguration comes as his vice president and running mate, Kamala Harris, has publicly distanced herself from his recent comments about Trump’s supporters. During a recent campaign event, Biden referred to some of Trump’s backers as “garbage.” Harris, campaigning in battleground states, clarified her stance by disagreeing with Biden’s language, noting that voters shouldn’t be labeled based on their candidate of choice.
The division in messaging underscores the high-stakes nature of the election, with Harris and Biden appealing to different segments of the voting population. Harris has aimed to present herself as a unifying figure who values inclusivity, a sentiment echoed in her campaign remarks that emphasize respect for all voters, regardless of political allegiance.
Election Countdown and Inauguration Plans
With the election just days away, Biden’s commitment to attending the inauguration signals his intention to uphold the values of American democracy. He has not indicated any changes to this plan, regardless of who wins next week’s election. If Harris wins, it would mark the first inauguration of a woman president, adding historical significance to the event. Alternatively, if Trump wins, Biden’s attendance would serve as a statement of bipartisan respect and adherence to democratic principles.
The White House’s announcement about Biden’s participation in the next inauguration reflects an effort to assure the public of stability and order in the election’s aftermath. This move underscores the president’s emphasis on tradition and unity at a time when partisan divisions are high.
As the country approaches Election Day, Biden’s commitment to a peaceful transition stands in stark contrast to Trump’s actions in 2021, reminding Americans of the importance of upholding democratic values.
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