Following President-elect Trump's victory, President Biden has faced criticism for his diminished public presence and perceived lack of leadership during the transition period. White House officials and Democrats close to senior lawmakers have expressed concerns about a "total vacuum" in leadership, citing Biden's reduced press engagements and minimal public appearances.

Biden's approach has been described as "cavalier and selfish" by some, while others defend it as a strategic decision to avoid undermining the incoming administration. This strategy mirrors the approach of former President Obama, who also maintained a low profile during his transition period.

The President's absence from the public discourse has been particularly noticeable as Democrats grapple with the prospect of being out of power in both the White House and Congress. Some allies admit Biden has been "conspicuously absent" from discussions about the party's future direction.

This reduced engagement follows a pattern established after Trump's victory over Vice President Harris. Biden has significantly scaled back his already limited press briefings and interviews, frustrating some within the White House and the Democratic party. One former White House official questioned the purpose of Biden speaking out if it doesn't achieve strategic objectives.

Meanwhile, other prominent Democrats, such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, are being discussed as potential 2028 presidential candidates, further highlighting the shift in focus within the party. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) acknowledged this dynamic, noting that various "standard bearers" are vying for attention as the power transition unfolds.

Some Democrats argue that Biden's approach is a deliberate strategy to avoid interfering with the incoming administration. Others, however, express concern that his absence is creating a sense of drift and uncertainty within the party. One Democrat close to senior lawmakers lamented that conversations within the party rarely mention the president, adding, "It feels like Trump is president already."

Separately, Rep. James Clyburn recently disclosed his role in urging President Biden to pardon his son, Hunter Biden. This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape as the Biden administration concludes its term.