After announcing that he and his family would not participate in most of the presidential traditions for the inauguration of a successor, President Donald J. Trump surprised everyone by doing one. He left a letter for Joe Biden.
“In the past, presidents have used the notes to underscore the significance of the job, and the rewards, hardships, and loneliness that sometimes comes with it. Those notes have also generally put aside the partisanship of the election and offered support for a successful presidency,” USA Today reported.
On Wednesday morning, White House spokesman Judd Deere confirmed that Trump had indeed left a note for his successor.
In the past, presidents typically left notes of congratulations, support, and encouragement behind for the new occupant of the Oval Office. However, many wondered if Trump would do the same, considering the tension and animosity in the weeks leading up to the inauguration.
Past presidents’ note to their successors
For example, when President Bush was leaving office, he left a note warning President Barack Obama that there would be “trying moments,” that his critics would “rage,” that his “‘friends’ will disappoint.” Bush also reminded Obama, “You will have an Almighty God to comfort you, a family who loves you, and a country that is pulling for you, including me. “