On Tuesday, President Donald Trump shared that former President Joe Biden left him a handwritten letter inside the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office. This act continues the long-standing tradition where outgoing presidents leave notes for their successors.
A Letter from One Leader to Another
Trump revealed that he discovered the letter on Monday evening, just hours after his second-term inauguration. He described it as “very nice” and “inspirational.” According to Trump, the letter began with the phrase “To Number 47,” acknowledging Trump’s return to the presidency as the 47th U.S. president.
Here’s what Trump shared about the letter:
- It encouraged him to enjoy his term as president.
- It highlighted the importance of the role and responsibilities of leading the country.
- It had a positive tone that Trump felt was worth sharing with the public.
Trump mentioned he might release the letter to let Americans see its encouraging words, as he believes it reflects well on Biden.
Found During a Special Moment
Trump came across the letter during a ceremony in the Oval Office when a journalist asked if Biden had left him a message. Holding it up for the cameras, Trump showed the handwritten “47” on the letter, saying he would read it privately before deciding on making its full content public.
A Tradition of Letters
The tradition of outgoing presidents leaving letters for their successors dates back to 1989 when President Ronald Reagan left a humorous and heartfelt note for his successor, George H.W. Bush. It was written on stationery with the phrase, “Don’t let the turkeys get you down.”
This isn’t Trump’s first interaction with such a tradition. When Biden took office in 2021, Trump left him a letter that Biden later described as “very generous.” However, Biden also chose not to release its contents, keeping the moment private.
A Unique Presidential Moment
Trump’s return to the White House makes history as he becomes the first president since Grover Cleveland in the 1800s to serve non-consecutive terms. This letter, bridging two administrations, adds a personal and meaningful touch to this historic moment.
As Trump begins his second term, the letter serves as a reminder of the weight and significance of the presidency, highlighting the bond and respect that can exist even between political opponents.
