President Obama and the former Republican presidential candidate shared lunch and ideas in the White House's private dining room.
Mitt Romney probably wishes that his first visit to the White House after the election would've been to check out his new digs for the next four years.
But much to his dismay, it was instead for lunch with his No. 1 frenemy, President Obama.
And for reporters who spent months covering the former rivals on the campaign trail, there was probably a bit of disappointment, too. The first Obama-Romney meeting since their final debate was completely off the record.
During his daily briefing with reporters, Obama spokesman Jay Carney said each wanted to "have a private conversation," but that the White House would probably release a photograph of the former rivals for the "historical record."
"The focus of their discussion was on America's leadership in the world and the importance of maintaining that leadership position in the future," the White House said in a statement, hours after Obama's and Romney's meeting.
The menu consisted of white turkey chili and Southwestern grilled chicken salad — and perhaps, a slice of humble pie.
The White House statement said that Romney congratulated the president and wished him well for the future. The pair also pledged to stay in touch, especially if opportunities arise to "work together on shared interests."
Before the lunch, Romney met with his former vice presidential running mate Rep. Paul Ryan on Capitol Hill. In a statement, Ryan expressed gratitude to Romney for choosing him and said he cherishes their friendship.
"I'm proud of the principles and ideas we advanced during the campaign and the commitment we share to expanding opportunity and promoting economic security for American families," Ryan said.
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(Photo: Pete Souza/White House Photo via Getty Images)
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