WASHINGTON – Outgoing President Donald Trump departed the White House left the White House for the final time as President early Wednesday morning and will spend the final hours of his presidency at his Mar-a-Logo estate in Florida.
Mr. Trump’s departure saw him fly in Marine One to Joint Base Andrews with First Lady Melania Trump, where he was greeted by his family and a few hundred supporters. He gave final remarks without a teleprompter, thanking his supporters and touting his successes in office.
“What we’ve done has been amazing by any standard,” Trump said.
Mr. Trump spoke for nine minutes about “an incredible four years” and touted his successes over his term, which included Space Force, veterans benefits, and the 2017 tax bill. His supporters responded by chanting “we love you” and the outgoing President hinted you have not seen the last of him.
“It is my greatest honor and privilege to have been your president,” he said. I will always fight for you. I will be watching. I will be listening. Goodbye, we love you, we will be back in some form.”
Mr. Trump did not mention his two impeachments, the upcoming Senate Impeachment trial, or the over 400,000 who have died of COVID-19. He did, however, warn his supporters of the threat of the virus telling them to “be careful”.
While did not mention Biden’s administration by name, he did wish them luck. The White House would later confirm that Mr. Trump did leave a note for incoming President Biden but did not say what the letter said.
“I wish the new administration great luck and great success,” Trump said. “I think they’ll have great success.”
Mr. Trump thanked Vice President Mike Pence, who was not in attendence at the farewell event. The outgoing president thanked Congress and his family, saying they did not have to be a part of his White House run.
His presidency was not without controversy as Mr. Trump pardoned former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn after he pleaded guilty and more recently Steve Bannon. Former Trump personal attorney Michael Cohen pleaded guilty in 2018 to multiple crimes.
