As the Bidens prepare to leave, the White House braces for the return of Donald and Melania Trump.
According to Mail Online, Donald Trump will reassume the presidency on January 20, 2025, with his family returning to the White House after four years away.
The White House residence staff, a team of nearly 100 nonpolitical employees, will oversee the transition. This group, consisting of butlers, chefs, and more, has been preparing for months to execute a seamless shift between administrations.
Inauguration Day presents a tight timeline, with only five hours allotted to move the Bidens out and the Trumps in. Staff preparations began as early as July after President Joe Biden exited the 2024 presidential race.
Plans include organizing personal items for the Trumps, such as clothes, toiletries, and favorite foods. Kate Andersen Brower, a journalist familiar with White House operations, noted the advantage of staff already knowing the Trumps’ preferences.
"It’s easier because they’ve lived there before. There aren't any mysteries about what they like to have for breakfast, how they operate, what kind of shampoo they use. I mean, they know everything already."
Melania Trump will return to areas she previously renovated during their first term. Her earlier projects included updates to the Yellow Oval Room and adding a Tennis Pavilion.
Melania Trump took a hands-on approach to preserving and beautifying the White House during her first tenure. She also redesigned the Rose Garden, a change that drew both praise and controversy. Her office highlighted her dedication to maintaining the historic aspects of the White House. The restoration of damaged furniture and other projects were part of her broader vision for the residence.
Melania’s past efforts provide a glimpse into how the Trumps may personalize the space during their second term. Personalization extends beyond décor to the Oval Office, where Donald Trump previously installed a Diet Coke button and other unique items.
As the Bidens depart, they will take their personal belongings and leave official documents for the National Archives. Dale Haney, the White House chief groundskeeper, will manage the relocation of the Bidens’ cat, Willow. Traditionally, the outgoing president receives the flag flown over the White House on their final day. This symbolic gesture marks the end of their term.
Trump’s return may also bring personnel changes, with a potential new hire for the position of chief usher. The role, which oversees residence staff, typically comes with a salary of about $200,000 annually.
During his first term, Trump’s Oval Office reflected his preferences, featuring a beige rug and a bust of Winston Churchill. In contrast, President Biden had opted for a darker blue rug during his term.
The Diet Coke button, a quirky detail from Trump’s first presidency, could make a comeback. Staff who worked with Trump during his prior tenure recalled his habit of tipping generously, often with cash. The transition follows a similar pattern to 2021 when the Bidens experienced logistical challenges upon their arrival. However, staff preparation ensures a smoother process this time.
Donald and Melania Trump’s return to the White House signals the resumption of familiar routines and traditions. Residence staff, equipped with detailed knowledge of their preferences, will ensure a well-executed transition. The move underscores the adaptability of the nonpolitical employees who maintain the White House’s day-to-day operations through successive administrations.
