Joe and Jill Biden Depart Washington, DC for California After Trump's Inauguration

Just over an hour after President Donald Trump took the oath of office on January 20, 2025, former President Joe Biden and former First Lady Jill Biden were whisked away from Washington, D.C. in a helicopter, marking the end of an era.

Joe and Jill Biden Depart Washington

The helicopter, known as Marine One when carrying the current president, took the Bidens to Joint Base Andrews. There, the outgoing president addressed a crowd of supporters, stating, "It has been the honor of my life to serve as your president," followed by a heartfelt, "I love you all."

Following the inauguration ceremonies, the Bidens boarded Special Air Mission 46 at Joint Base Andrews and set off to the Santa Ynez Valley in California for personal time. While some speculated on their arrival at Santa Barbara Airport, a "no-fly" notice in the airspace around Vandenberg indicated the former president's landing spot.

Shelby Sim, President/CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, mentioned, "He and Jill visited last summer, so this is his second visit in less than a year." Sim also shared a "rumor" that the former president might be considering purchasing a home in the area but emphasized that this visit was "purely for R&R."

The Bidens had also traveled to the Santa Ynez Valley after the former president's speech at the Democratic National Convention, staying with billionaire donor Joe Kiani, who has contributed nearly $3 million to various Biden-affiliated entities. Additionally, Kiani was appointed by Biden to the Council of Advisors on Science and Technology in September 2021, advising on policy matters related to his medical tech business, Masimo. Since Biden took office, Masimo has reportedly received $3 million in federal contracts, according to Republicans.

The Bidens were also seen departing for theSanta Ynez Valley after the former president exited the race in August. During this visit, they reportedly stayed at Kiani Preserve, an 8,000-acre estate owned by billionaire donor Joe Kiani. However, little is known about their next move after leaving the White House, with no public plans announced by the family.