The spectacle of two former archrivals meeting in the White House could lead some to wonder if a political circus has turned into a comedic sitcom. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump exchanged pleasantries during a brief White House meeting designed to kick off a transition of power, and it felt less like a handover and more like a reunion of old buddies. With no ceremonial tea time for the first ladies, one can only imagine how the mood in the room contrasted with the seriousness of the occasion.
Observers might expect an awkward and heavy atmosphere filled with shouting accusations of being “literally Hitler,” but instead, it was nearly a love-fest. Both men appeared to share an understanding that the political landscape is treacherous, yet somehow they were able to smile and make light of their past animosities. This has sent shockwaves through social media, sparking theories and jokes that Biden might just have swapped his blue shirt for a red one—if only metaphorically.
As the meeting went on, Biden greeted Trump with a cheerful “welcome back,” apparently forgetting any political enmity that had brewed over the years. Meanwhile, Trump reciprocated with sage commentary on the nature of politics, calling it tough but seemingly pleasant in that moment. Some might even say the atmosphere was so jovial that it could make one question if they were planning a political buddy comedy together instead of discussing a neck-and-neck election outcome between himself and Vice President Kamala Harris.
In the age of social media, such antics didn’t escape commentary. Many took to platforms to joke about how the warmth of the fireplace contributed to the shortened meeting, while others joked that Biden’s beaming smile was obvious proof he had cast his vote for Trump. The theory that Biden went red—either out of desperation or genuine support—gained traction when eagle-eyed observers noted that First Lady Jill Biden donned a strikingly red outfit on Election Day.
One wonders if the Biden’s actually did vote for Trump Watch: Trump and Biden 'Act Like Buddies' as They Meet in Oval Office via @WestJournalism https://t.co/SE7N4jBm3X
— Richard Roderick (@RichardRod38375) November 13, 2024
The conspiratorial whispers gained momentum as social media users observed that Biden’s positive demeanor post-election did not seem to align with someone who had just faced a crushing defeat. Theories sprouted like weeds in a garden, each more ludicrous than the last, suggesting that perhaps the Bidens had quietly crossed party lines. After all, when a president-in-waiting appears all too merry with his opponent, one can’t help but speculate about which way the ballots truly swung.
Though the transition of power will coast into official proceedings on January 20, 2025—when Trump will be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States—theories surrounding the Bidens’ potential votes will only continue to bubble below the surface. Whether they voted red, blue, or stood idly by as spectators of this political carnival, the whispers will linger, poking fun at the strange alliances and comic turns politics seems to take these days.