In a gesture reflecting the longstanding tradition of outgoing U.S. presidents leaving personal notes for their successors, former President Joe Biden penned a letter to President Donald Trump upon departing the White House. Dated January 20, 2025, the letter conveyed Biden's wishes for prosperity, peace, and grace during Trump's tenure, acknowledging the "inevitable storms" ahead and emphasizing the significance of the presidency. President Trump described the note as "nice" and inspirational, underscoring the importance of the office.
Read it in full below:
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 in 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.
- Joe Biden 1-20-25”