Biden’s Memoir Reveals Trump’s 2021 Letter Praising His Character Amid Sharp Criticisms

Key points

• Biden’s memoir, 'Promise Me, America,' releases on November 17, 2026, featuring the full text of a letter Trump left in the Oval Office on January 20, 2021.
• The letter, written in black Sharpie on White House stationery and addressed 'To '46,'' praised Biden’s love for the American people and predicted he would make a mark on history.
• Biden initially described the letter as 'very generous' but kept its contents private until now, noting the contrast between Trump’s public attacks and this private note.
• In the same memoir, Biden harshly criticizes Trump’s role in the January 6 Capitol attack, stating it 'should follow him to his grave,' and condemns his 'dismissive and destructive nature' regarding policy reversals.
• Biden also recounts a warm 2024 transition meeting with Trump, where the former president was 'chatty' and 'fawning,' despite their political rivalry.

Background

This story follows earlier coverage of Biden’s memoir, which revealed the 2021 letter and detailed the 2024 handover. The archive notes the stark contrast between the cordiality of the letter and meeting and Biden’s public denunciation of Trump’s actions regarding the 2021 riots and federal institutions. Biden’s memoir also includes his personal reflections on his Stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis, which he disclosed in May 2025, and his belief that he was the 'best-equipped person' to run for president despite his health issues.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post emphasizes the 'unexpectedly warm' nature of the letter and Biden’s description of two sides of Trump: one trying to overturn the election and another writing with 'the warmth of an old friend.' The New York Times highlights the 'remarkable' discordance between the letter and Trump’s public comments, noting it did not criticize Biden or challenge the election results. AP News focuses on the contrast between Trump’s private praise and his public decries of the 'stolen' election, while also including Biden’s harshest characterization of Trump’s role in January 6. The Atlantic provides Biden’s first-person account of the 2024 meeting, describing Trump as 'chatty' and 'fawning,' and his concerns about the 'destructive nature' of Trump’s administration.

Why it matters

The revelation of the 2021 letter and the 2024 meeting details offer a nuanced view of the personal dynamics between two political rivals, contrasting private cordiality with public hostility. Biden’s memoir provides a firsthand account of his perspective on Trump’s actions, including the January 6 attack and policy reversals, which has significant implications for understanding the current political landscape and the legacy of both administrations. The memoir also sheds light on Biden’s personal health struggles and his decision to run for president despite his cancer diagnosis.

What to watch

The full release of 'Promise Me, America' on November 17, 2026, will likely include more details on Biden’s presidency and his views on Trump’s administration. Biden’s limited travel to promote the book due to his cancer treatment may affect the book’s marketing and public engagement. The White House’s response to Biden’s criticisms, particularly regarding the January 6 attack and policy reversals, will be a key development in the ongoing political discourse.