Moving into the White House is a big deal, and President-elect Donald Trump is doing it for the second time. His wife, Melania, says this transition is much smoother. “I know where I will be going. I know the rooms where we will be living. I know the process,” she shared, recalling that their first move in 2017 was quite the challenge.
Inauguration Day is hectic for the White House staff. They have about five hours to clear out one family and welcome in another. “Everything needs to be planned to the minute,” Melania emphasized during an interview.
The action begins when the outgoing and incoming presidents leave together for the Capitol. As soon as they depart, the team immediately starts moving. “Staff works nonstop to handle all the personal items,” explained Matthew Costello from the White House Historical Association.
After the new president takes the oath, he returns to a White House already filled with his family’s belongings and stocked with their favorite foods. However, this year, schedules might shift due to cold weather. Trump is moving the ceremony indoors and has also changed the typical parade to a shorter version at a nearby arena.
Meanwhile, moving trucks wait nearby, ready to bring in the new family’s items. The staff operates in teams. Some handle packing items from the outgoing family, while others bring in the Trumps’ belongings. They set everything up just the way Melania wants it.
Before the new family arrives, the White House gets a thorough cleaning. Windows are washed, carpets vacuumed, and all rooms are equipped with fresh sheets and towels.
This preparation often starts right after the November election when the chief usher contacts the incoming family to coordinate the move. In 2016, Michelle Obama guided Melania around during the transition. However, after Trump lost in 2020, he and Melania chose not to extend the same courtesy to Joe and Jill Biden. This time, Trump did meet Biden, but Melania opted not to meet with Jill.
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Source linkWhite House,Inauguration Day,Donald Trump,Melania Trump,presidential transition,Michelle Obama
