Former Presidents Obama, Clinton and Bush won't attend Trump's inaugural lunch
SUMMARY
Former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush have declined invitations to attend President-elect Donald Trump's inaugural luncheon, although they will be present at his swearing-in ceremony earlier in the day. Hillary Clinton, also invited, will not attend the luncheon, and Michelle Obama will skip both the luncheon and the ceremony. Trump's team did not comment on the absences, marking a break from the tradition where former presidents and their spouses typically unite for inaugural events. Trump notably skipped President Biden’s 2021 inauguration, further highlighting the strained relations. Despite the absences, the swearing-in will include the three former presidents, continuing the tradition of honoring the peaceful transfer of power. The inaugural luncheon, a longstanding custom since 1953 hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, often features speeches and toasts welcoming the new administration.
