Donald Trump's First Day Post-Election: Calls for Unity and Transitions

Donald Trump's first day as the new President-elect in the United States was marked by calls for unity and the beginning of a crucial transition period.

Initial Calls and Reactions

Following his victory speech in Florida, Donald Trump remained discreet, focusing on greeting calls from world leaders and key supporters and donors. Reports from the Associated Press highlighted that Trump received congratulatory messages from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These calls symbolized international recognition and support for the new president-elect.

Signaling the Transition

Meanwhile, Joe Biden's team urged Trump's staff to sign off on necessary agreements to initiate the formal transition as mandated by federal law. Delays in these agreements could jeopardize the security clearance process for Trump's incoming administration, potentially affecting the access to sensitive government information. Joe Biden emphasized the importance of unity and praised Kamala Harris, strengthening the groundwork for a smooth transition.

During a call with Kamala Harris, Trump acknowledged her professionalism and tenacity, both leaders expressing a commitment to unite the nation. The conversation highlighted the need for collaborative efforts in the face of the country's challenges.

Global Connections and Aspirations

Trump's first day also involved calls with several international leaders, including:

These calls primarily focused on enhancing US-Saudi relations and fostering peace efforts in the Middle East amid ongoing conflicts involving Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. Although Trump has pledged his intentions, the specifics of his approach towards these issues remain unclear.

Financial Reactions and Legal Implications

US markets responded positively to the outcome of the 2020 election, seeing gains in both stocks and cryptocurrencies. This positive response underscores the markets' confidence in the new administration.

A notable legal development came from Special Counsel Jack Smith, who had previously charged Trump in federal cases, including the illegal hoarding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate. According to reports, Smith is reviewing DOJ policies on prosecuting sitting presidents. This review could potentially halt any further action against Trump once he assumes the presidency, aligning with long-standing department legal opinions that protect presidents from criminal charges while in office.

Conclusion

Donald Trump's first day after his stunning electoral victory was a testament to the complex nature of political transitions and the need for unity in the face of domestic and international challenges. As the transition formally begins, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition of power and addressing the nation's aspirations and concerns.