Maybe- but that didn't change in the days leading up to inauguration. Or even since the pandemic began. I haven't seen anyone in media seriously attack the cla

Maybe- but that didn't change in the days leading up to inauguration. Or even since the pandemic began. I haven't seen anyone in media seriously attack the claim itself. Which shows that political cost wasn't really a concern (even if the Biden admin didn't like the timing of the statement). Again, if it was personal / selfishness, pre-election or earlier would have made more sense. Even as far back as being a distraction from the (1st) impeachment would have been high benefit, low/no cost. People are quick to presume the worst with Trump's motives for a particular action, without necessarily thinking what the preferred/likely action would be, given a particular motive.