In a break from established White House tradition, the customary gift exchange between the incoming and outgoing first ladies did not take place during the 2025 presidential transition. Melania Trump did not bring a gift when she met Jill Biden on January 20, 2025.
This event was a distinct change compared to 2021 when the Trumps chose not to partake in inaugural activities. “Welcome home,” President Joe Biden greeted the Trumps as they arrived at the White House for the conventional pre-inauguration meeting.
The lack of a gift was in stark contrast to Melania Trump’s first arrival at the White House in 2017. She had then presented a blue Tiffany & Co. box to the then-First Lady Michelle Obama. This moment gained much attention when Mrs. Obama seemed momentarily taken aback by the unexpected gift, leading then-President Barack Obama to step in and take the package. Mrs. Obama later revealed in a 2018 interview that the gift was a “lovely frame,” shedding light on the much-discussed moment of the presidential transition.
The gift exchange tradition has been part of the presidential transitions since the mid-20th century. In keeping with the tradition, Jill Biden invited Mrs. Trump for tea at the White House in December 2024. When Mrs. Trump declined the invitation, Dr. Biden sent her a private note offering help with the transition process, which was delivered to her through Donald Trump at the Notre Dame reopening ceremony. The only time the two women interacted before the inauguration was at former President Carter’s state funeral.
Mrs. Trump contrasted her transition experience with that of 2017 when she claimed that the Obama administration had withheld information, creating challenges. She noted that she was better prepared this time around and found the process to be different. Mrs. Trump further stated that she had finished packing and choosing furniture, indicating her preparedness for the transition.
Although there was no exchange of gifts, both first ladies upheld the tradition of paying attention to inaugural fashion. Mrs. Trump wore a navy blue coat designed by American designer Adam Lippes and a distinctive wide-brimmed hat with white trimming by American brand Eric Javits. Dr. Biden chose a tie-waist purple coat, symbolizing a dignified transition. Their fashion choices, both made by American designers, were noted by observers.
Both couples followed the protocol of sharing coffee and tea in the White House residence before proceeding to the Capitol for the ceremony. “My message today is joy,” Biden stated, adding “hope” to his inaugural themes. Despite some changes to tradition, the joint departure of the couples for the Capitol underscored the peaceful transition of power.
Moving forward, Mrs. Trump’s office has announced changes to the role of first lady during her husband’s second term. She will split her time between official duties in Washington, D.C., and spending time at residences in Florida and New York City, where her son Barron attends New York University, a departure from the traditional first lady protocols.
