Before leaving office for the final time, President Joe Biden plans to write a letter to President-elect Donald Trump, CNN has learned. This gesture follows a tradition where outgoing presidents pen a note to their successors, leaving it on the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office.
When Biden took office four years ago, he revealed that Trump had adhered to this tradition despite his refusal to attend the inauguration. The letter Trump left for Biden was described by Biden as “very generous,” though its contents remain undisclosed. A senior aide to Trump at the time called it a “personal note” expressing hopes for the success of the country and the new administration.
Trump, known for disregarding various traditions, followed this practice likely due to his admiration for the letter President Barack Obama left for him when he assumed office. Trump was reportedly so moved by the gesture that he tried to reach out to Obama to express his gratitude, though the two never connected directly.
On Monday, Biden and Trump will have several interactions, including a private reception at the White House with their spouses and a joint ride to the Capitol for the inauguration. This marks a return to the tradition followed when Obama and Trump shared a ride in 2017. However, the moment could be tense, given Trump’s recent comments at a rally, where he criticized his predecessor’s legacy, declaring that the nation is entering a new era of “American strength and prosperity.”
