Biden has frequently made remarks that seem designed to provoke Trump. He recently responded to a terrorist attack in New Orleans, correcting Trump’s premature assumption that it was linked to foreign terrorism, when the suspect was a U.S. citizen. Biden’s tone also turned critical when discussing the late President Jimmy Carter, drawing a contrast with Trump by emphasizing the values of decency and integrity. He commented that Carter’s approach to leadership was one where he always put the American people first, unlike Trump’s divisive and often combative style.

Biden also took a symbolic jab at Trump by honoring Liz Cheney with a Presidential Citizens Medal, recognizing her leadership during the January 6 investigation and her stand against Trump’s false claims about the 2020 election. Cheney, once a prominent Republican, was applauded by Biden at the White House, despite facing backlash from within her own party.

Meanwhile, Trump has continued to challenge Biden on various fronts, including the recent terror attack, once again linking it to his narrative of an “open border” and violent crime. Trump also expressed displeasure over the potential for American flags to be at half-mast on Inauguration Day due to Carter’s passing, suggesting that no one would want this to happen.

Despite their public clash, both administrations have reportedly cooperated on national security issues. However, the relationship between Biden and Trump remains deeply fractured. Biden, for his part, is offering a peaceful transition of power, something Trump failed to provide when Biden took office in 2021. This peaceful transfer stands in stark contrast to the rancor between the two men, marking an unusual moment in modern American political history.