During his first day in office for his second term, President Donald Trump, while signing executive orders, found a letter left for him by his predecessor, former President Joe Biden. The discovery was aided by Fox News senior White House correspondent Peter Doocy, who inquired if Trump had received a traditional presidential letter. Trump, initially unsure, located an envelope marked "47" – signifying his presidency – in a desk drawer, playfully thanking Doocy for the assist.
After jokingly suggesting he would read the letter aloud, Trump decided to review it privately before sharing its contents. He then confirmed he had also left a letter for Biden, continuing a long-standing tradition between outgoing and incoming presidents.
This exchange highlights the 36-year tradition, initiated by President Ronald Reagan in 1989, of departing presidents leaving a note for their successors. Even after losing an election, outgoing presidents have upheld this practice, as demonstrated by George H.W. Bush leaving a letter for Bill Clinton. This custom continues to symbolize a peaceful transfer of power.
