Donald Trump uncovers a mysterious letter left by Joe Biden in the Oval Office desk before departing from his presidential term.
Trump finds a surprising letter from Biden
Donald Trump uncovered a handwritten letter from former President Joe Biden in the Oval Office.
The discovery happened on January 20 during a ceremony in the West Wing.
Trump, now the 47th President of the United States, revealed insights into the unexpected note.
How Trump found the letter
During the event, a journalist asked if Biden left Trump a message.
This prompted Trump to open a drawer in the iconic Oval Office desk. Inside, he found an envelope marked with the number “47.”
Trump expressed surprise, saying, “It could have been years before we found it. Wow, thank you.
“[…] Peter thank you very much, I may’ve not seen this for months.”
He also shared that he had left a similar letter for Biden after his term as the 45th president. Trump said the note he wrote emphasized “the unification of our country.”
What was in Biden’s letter?
The contents of Biden’s letter remain largely unknown.
Trump revealed only a few details, stating it was an inspirational message. He quoted part of it: “It said, ‘To Number 47.’”
Trump added that the letter encouraged him to “do a good job” and reflected the importance of the presidency.
He added: “It was a very nice one […] just basically a little bit of an inspirational-type letter. Enjoy it. Do a good job. Important, very important how important the job is.”
The tradition of presidential letters
The practice of outgoing presidents writing letters to their successors began in 1989.
President Ronald Reagan started the tradition when leaving office.
Reagan left a humorous and heartfelt note for his successor, George H.W.
Bush, on a piece of stationary that read, “Don’t let the turkeys get you down.” Alongside an illustration of an elephant and turkeys, Reagan offered encouragement and well wishes, writing:
It continued: “Dear George, You’ll have moments when you want to use this particular stationary. Well, go to it.
“George, I treasure the memories we share and I wish you all the very best. You’ll be in my prayers. God bless you & Barbara. I’ll miss our Thursday lunches. Ron.”
A lasting legacy of goodwill
The tradition of passing on wisdom and encouragement continues to symbolize a peaceful transition of power.
While the details of Biden’s letter remain private, the gesture reflects the enduring bond between presidents.
Trump’s acknowledgment of the note serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and respect in leadership.