Melania Trump Broke White House Tradition by Skipping ‘Tea and Tour’ with Jill Biden

Melania Trump made history as the first modern first lady to skip the traditional “tea and tour” of the White House family quarters with her successor, Jill Biden. Following Donald Trump’s loss to Joe Biden in the 2020 election, the former first couple left Washington, D.C., for Florida on January 20, the day of Biden’s inauguration, rather than participating in the long-standing tradition of hosting the incoming first family.

This customary “tea and tour” ritual dates back over 100 years, with first ladies welcoming their successors for decades. Kate Andersen Brower, author of First Women: The Grace and Power of America’s Modern First Ladies, explained, “In modern history, there has always been an invitation; this goes back to at least Bess Truman and Mamie Eisenhower (in 1952).” Despite honoring other First Lady traditions, Melania Trump chose not to participate in this one.

Instead, she released a farewell video on X (formerly Twitter), reflecting on her years in the White House and urging Americans to “remember that violence is never the answer and will never be justified.” The lack of an invitation was confirmed by Jill Biden’s spokesperson, Michael LaRosa, who said they had “not heard from the First Lady’s office.” Ashley Biden, Jill Biden’s daughter, shared in an interview with TODAY that they hadn’t been informed of any such plans, saying, “No, I don’t think they’re doing the traditional protocol, which is unfortunate… But I think we’re all OK with it.

The tradition of the White House “tea and tour” is symbolic of the peaceful transfer of power, even under politically tense circumstances. Michelle Obama, for example, welcomed Melania Trump in 2016 despite the contentious election. Before that, Laura Bush hosted Michelle Obama twice, even inviting her daughters to choose their future rooms, per Daily Mail.

Melania and Donald Trump broke additional traditions by choosing not to attend Biden’s inauguration, an event that historically represents unity and continuity. Typically, the outgoing president and first lady attend the ceremony to symbolize the peaceful transition of power. Instead, the Trumps departed for Florida early on Inauguration Day. As Anita McBride, former chief of staff to Laura Bush, stated, “The point is conveying unity and continuity… Ceremony matters. Tradition matters.”

During her time in the White House, Melania’s projects, including renovations to the White House Bowling Alley, Tennis Pavilion, and Rose Garden, drew scrutiny. Her announcement of the pavilion renovation during the height of the pandemic attracted criticism, with some questioning the timing given the nation’s economic challenges. Melania’s departure without following certain traditions marked a distinct shift in the White House’s ceremonial handover, leaving many to reflect on the symbolic importance of these long-standing protocols.