When Barack Obama left the White House in January 2017, he did something that presidents have quietly done for generations: he wrote a private letter to his successor.
That successor was Donald Trump.
At a time of deep political division, the handwritten note was a reminder of something bigger than politics — the peaceful transfer of power and the enduring strength of American democracy.
Now that the full transcript of Obama’s letter has been made public, we’re sharing it in full so readers can reflect on the words one president chose to leave for the next.
A Tradition Between Presidents
It is customary for outgoing US presidents to leave a welcome letter for the incoming leader on Inauguration Day. These notes are usually private and personal. Sometimes they remain confidential for years.
Obama’s letter, however, became public after CNN reported it had obtained a copy from someone President Trump showed it to.
When Donald Trump first read the letter in the Oval Office, he described it as a “beautiful letter” and later revealed that he had called Obama to thank him.
Why This Letter Matters
Regardless of political views, this letter stands as a powerful example of civility and continuity during a historic transition.
A handwritten note.
A private gesture.
A moment of reflection between leaders.
At World Letter Writing Day, we believe letters carry weight in ways emails and statements often cannot. They slow us down. They allow thoughtfulness. They preserve moments in history.
That’s why we are publishing the full transcript of Barack Obama’s letter to Donald Trump — so you can read the words exactly as they were written, and reflect on the responsibility, tradition and humanity behind them.
Here’s the transcript of the full letter he left for Donald Trump in the Oval Office, as published by CNN.
Dear Mr President —
Congratulations on a remarkable run. Millions have placed their hopes in you, and all of us, regardless of party, should hope for expanded prosperity and security during your tenure.
This is a unique office, without a clear blueprint for success, so I don’t know that any advice from me will be particularly helpful. Still, let me offer a few reflections from the past 8 years.
First, we’ve both been blessed, in different ways, with great good fortune. Not everyone is so lucky. It’s up to us to do everything we can [to] build more ladders of success for every child and family that’s willing to work hard.
Second, American leadership in this world really is indispensable. It’s up to us, through action and example, to sustain the international order that’s expanded steadily since the end of the Cold War, and upon which our own wealth and safety depend.
Third, we are just temporary occupants of this office. That makes us guardians of those democratic institutions and traditions — like rule of law, separation of powers, equal protection and civil liberties — that our forebears fought and bled for. Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it’s up to us to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found them.
And finally, take time, in the rush of events and responsibilities, for friends and family. They’ll get you through the inevitable rough patches.
Michelle and I wish you and Melania the very best as you embark on this great adventure, and know that we stand ready to help in any ways which we can.
Good luck and Godspeed,
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