The contents of the letter former President Joe Biden left for President Donald Trump have finally been unveiled, providing a rare look into one of the Oval Office’s most time-honored customs.
Addressed to the new commander-in-chief on January 20, 2025, the letter revealed Biden’s parting words:
“Dear President Trump,
As I take leave of this sacred office, I wish you and your family all the best in the next four years. The American people — and people around the world — look to this house for steadiness in the inevitable storms of history, and my prayer is that the coming years will be a time of prosperity, peace, and grace for our nation.
May God bless you and guide you as He has blessed and guided our beloved country since our founding.”
The letter, dated January 20, was signed simply: “Joe Biden.”
This deeply personal note was discovered by President Trump inside the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office upon his arrival Monday evening. “It was a nice note,” Trump commented to reporters Tuesday night.
The tradition of outgoing presidents leaving letters for their successors traces back decades. In 1989, President Ronald Reagan began this practice by penning a warm, handwritten note to incoming President George H.W. Bush. The tradition has since served as a bridge between administrations, emphasizing continuity and unity amid political transitions.
“These letters are about more than just words. They’re symbols of the peaceful transfer of power, the hallmark of our republic,” explained Dr. Gerald Langston, a presidential historian at Georgetown University.
Trump displayed the letter during his inauguration night signing of executive orders, holding it up for photographers as he began his term. For Trump, known for his polarizing relationship with Biden, the exchange marked a rare moment of civility.
Speaking to supporters on Tuesday, Trump remarked, “Say what you will about Joe Biden, but he respected the office enough to write this note. That’s what being a president should be about.”
While Biden’s letter emphasized unity and prayer, its tone contrasts with the politically charged atmosphere of recent years. Biden’s presidency was marked by fierce partisan divides, with key issues like immigration reform and foreign policy stoking tensions. Some political analysts have speculated whether the letter’s carefully worded message hinted at Biden’s hopes for healing during Trump’s term.
“Biden’s mention of ‘steadiness in storms’ could be seen as a nod to the challenges Trump will face, both domestically and globally,” noted Langston.
Reactions from the public have been mixed. Many conservatives praised the gesture, interpreting it as a sign of Biden’s respect for the institution despite their ideological differences. Meanwhile, Democrats saw it as a bittersweet reminder of Biden’s exit after a single term.
“I think it’s a great example of putting the country first,” said Marianne Fields, a retired teacher from Ohio. “We need more moments like this.”
Whether viewed as symbolic or sincere, the letter underscores the significance of tradition in the nation’s highest office.
As President Trump begins his term, the letter serves as a poignant reminder of the weight of leadership. The public now watches to see how the 47th president will navigate his own storms of history.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for further updates.
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Well, one thing I and millions of others know for a fact, Joe Biden did not write that letter (note) ! He doesn’t have the cognitive skills to compose a note with clarity and clear and distinct composition! Neither did Jill!
You are sick!!!!!!
What nasty people
joe biden has been in Washington for over 50 Years … i wonder if he actually mean’s what he say’s.. it sounded nice tho’
So many nasty and jealous people. Trump did not leave President Biden a letter when he left office, Grow up people!
this was not written by that (pos) !his handeler tryed to push this crap on the people of this country ,to make his lieing look good !