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Trump And Obama's First Pic Together Post-Election

by Ann-Derrick Gaillot

Now that the dust from Election Day has settled somewhat, President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump have come together for the first time to speak to the press. The first photo of the two has just been released, and neither of them look particularly excited to be there. On Jan. 20, 2017, inauguration day, the nation's first black president will be handing over power to Trump, who was endorsed by the KKK's official newspaper in October.

Despite Obama having heavily campaigned against Trump in recent months, in his post-election day speech, the commander in chief expressed optimism about the country's future. He went on to voice support for Trump, saying "We are now all rooting for his success in uniting and leading the country." In the past, Trump has been critical of Obama and his policies, even publicly challenging the legitimacy of his citizenship for years. Even so, as Trump and Obama met before the press on Thursday, both remained courteous. Though, as you can see in the photos below, they don't seem especially excited to be meeting.

Obama and Trump shared a civil but serious handshake during the press conference. The two had already spoken by phone on Wednesday when the president called the president-elect by phone to congratulate him.

JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images
Win McNamee/Getty Images News/Getty Images
Win McNamee/Getty Images News/Getty Images
Win McNamee/Getty Images News/Getty Images
Win McNamee/Getty Images News/Getty Images
JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images

According to BBC News, Trump arrived at Reagan International Airport on his private jet ahead of the meeting, though journalists were barred from traveling with him on the flight. Trump's wife Melania was also in attendance and met with First Lady Michelle Obama, as well.

As reported by ABC News, during their nearly one-hour meeting, Trump and Obama talked about organizational plans in addition to policy issues. Obama echoed his Nov. 9 remarks of cooperation, saying that he "believe[s] that it is important for all of us, regardless of party, and regardless of political preferences to now come together, to work together."

Meanwhile, over on Twitter, people gleefully skewered the rather painful photos to come out of the meeting.

The president's words hit all the right notes of cordiality and respect, but the looks on both men's faces don't lie. Working together during this presidential transition will not be an easy, or particularly warm, time for either Obama or Trump. Let's just hope the president-elect takes the opportunity to learn as much as he can from the president while they still have time together.