Biden expected to leave Trump letter, continuing tradition since Reagan
President Biden is set to continue the long-standing tradition of leaving a letter for his successor, President-elect Trump, before departing the White House. This custom, which was first initiated by President Ronald Reagan, involves the outgoing president leaving a note on the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office for the incoming president.
Although President Trump has a history of breaking with tradition, he followed this practice by writing a letter to President Biden. Biden described the letter as “very generous,” but has chosen not to disclose its contents, citing the need for privacy. Trump, likewise, has opted not to share details of the letter, stating that it is up to Biden to reveal its contents.
During a September 2023 interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Trump mentioned that he had put a lot of thought into crafting the letter and described it as a “nice note.” He also received a “beautiful letter” from his predecessor, President Barack Obama, when he first took office.
As President Trump prepares to take office for a nonconsecutive term, he will be the first president since Grover Cleveland in the late 1800s to do so. This unique position adds an interesting layer to the traditional exchange of letters between outgoing and incoming presidents.
The letter-writing tradition serves as a symbolic passing of the torch, emphasizing the continuity of leadership and the importance of democratic institutions. It offers a moment of reflection and connection between presidents, regardless of their political differences.
As President Trump embarks on his new term, the exchange of letters with his predecessor underscores the historical significance of the peaceful transfer of power in the United States. This ritual, rooted in respect and continuity, highlights the enduring principles of democracy and the shared responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s values and traditions.
