Following Donald Trump's inauguration as President, his predecessors, including Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden, remained publicly silent on the transition of power. While all four former presidents attended the ceremony, none offered public congratulations or statements afterward. Biden's only public remarks were directed at his supporters before departing Washington, D.C., emphasizing their continued engagement despite leaving office.

Former President George W. Bush, former first lady Laura Bush, and former President Barack Obama are pictured after the inauguration. Former first ladies Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, and Jill Biden were also present, while Michelle Obama was notably absent. Sources suggest Mrs. Obama's absence stemmed from her strong disapproval of President Trump.

During the inauguration, Hillary Clinton reacted to Trump's suggestion of renaming the Gulf of Mexico with a chuckle, while Bill Clinton offered a cryptic response to CNN regarding his reaction to the speech. The Clintons chose not to attend the post-inaugural luncheon.

In contrast to the recent display of camaraderie between Obama and Trump at Jimmy Carter's funeral, the current transition saw no such public interaction. Trump and Melania Trump notably did not attend Biden's inauguration in 2021.

Trump's inaugural address, without directly naming Biden, criticized the previous administration's actions and emphasized his mandate to reverse perceived betrayals and restore faith, wealth, democracy, and freedom to the American people. In a subsequent address to supporters, Trump hinted at upcoming actions regarding the January 6th defendants and criticized Biden's last-minute pardons, characterizing them as unwarranted leniency towards individuals guilty of serious offenses.

Just before departing the White House, Biden issued preemptive pardons, shielding members of the January 6th House Select Committee, Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Mark Milley, as well as his own siblings and their spouses, from potential prosecution.