POTUS: Trump Shows Interest In Keeping Key Relationships
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- President Barack Obama said President-elect Donald Trump showed interest in maintaining core strategic relationships.
During a press conference Monday, ahead of his last scheduled trip abroad as president, Obama gave a deeper glimpse into his meeting with Trump last week.
The president said one of the main points he made while talking to Trump was to make sure he appoints the right staff.
"As a consequence of that team, I've been able to make good decisions," said President Obama during the press conference.
The president did have some critique of the incoming Trump, saying certain elements of his temperament won't serve him well unless he recognizes and corrects them.
On a positive note, the president said he was encouraged by Trump's message of unity on election night and is ready to help him transition smoothly.
"My team stands ready to accelerate the next steps that are required to ensure a smooth transition. We are going to be staying in touch as we travel," said President Obama.
He called the meeting a "free-flowing and useful conversation."
As for his party, the Democrats, the president said it's time for them to reflect on the election.
"It's a healthy thing for the Democratic Party to go through some reflection," said Obama.
The president also had a message for Americans and their stance on the next president - Donald Trump.
"It's important for us to let him make his decision and the American people will judge within the next couple of years whether they like what they see," said President Obama.
The president is leaving on a trip to Athens, Greece later in the evening. He is also set to stop into Germany and Peru this week.
His trip abroad comes as a new WSJ report says President Obama will spend extra time with President-elect Trump to help him prep for the White House.
During their meeting last week, President-elect Trump said he plans on seeking guidance from President Obama.
"I look forward to being with you many, many more times in the future," said Trump.
Trump is the first U.S. president-elect without government or military experience. He will be sworn in as president on January 20th.
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