What departing presidents say to their successors

In every transition since Ronald Reagan’s to George Bush, the outgoing occupant of the White House leaves behind handwritten words for the man taking his place. Here’s what they’ve written.

Leo Sands

Jan 21, 2025 – 8.29am

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Joe Biden on Monday left a personal letter addressed to his successor in the Oval Office, returning the gesture Donald Trump made for him on Inauguration Day in 2021.

The letter – which Biden confirmed he’d left but wouldn’t describe for reporters – marks the continuation of a modern tradition started (perhaps inadvertently) by President Ronald Reagan in 1989.

Washington Post