In a Christmas message dated December 25, 2025, President Biden and the First Lady delivered traditional holiday greetings from the White House, emphasizing America’s founding principles while acknowledging service members separated from their families during the season.
The presidential message recounted the nativity story from Bethlehem over two millennia ago, highlighting the birth of Jesus as “the Light of the World” amid angels, shepherds, and the guiding star that has become central to Christmas celebrations worldwide.
Faith, Family, and Freedom
Notably, the message emphasized America’s nearly 250-year commitment to principles centered on “faith, family, and freedom,” with a particular emphasis on the nation’s identity as “one Nation under God.” This religious framing has been consistent with Biden’s previous holiday messages, including his statement earlier this year to Orthodox Christians celebrating their Christmas observance.
“As Orthodox Christians around the world celebrate Christmas, Jill and I send our warmest greetings for a day of joy and reflection,” the President stated in January, while also acknowledging those suffering from war and conflict during the holiday season.
What’s striking about this year’s Christmas message is its optimistic tone, particularly when compared to Biden’s more somber assessment exactly five years earlier. In December 2020, as President-elect, Biden warned Americans that “our darkest days in the battle against COVID are ahead of us, not behind us.”
The White House has been busy with holiday preparations throughout December, including hosting Christmas volunteers on December 19, according to the official White House briefings page.
Acknowledging Service Members
A significant portion of the Christmas message was dedicated to thanking members of the Armed Forces who remain separated from their families during the holidays. The President emphasized that their service enables Americans to celebrate safely and freely.
This acknowledgment comes during a period of heightened international tensions. During his pre-Christmas remarks in 2020, Biden had criticized a major cyber attack as something that “happened on Donald Trump’s watch, when he wasn’t watching,” as transcripts from that period show.
The Christmas message reflects the administration’s continued effort to balance traditional holiday sentiments with acknowledgment of ongoing challenges facing the nation as it approaches its 250th anniversary. Though focused on celebration, it subtly reinforces the administration’s messaging around American values and national identity.
As White House traditions continue through changing times, this Christmas message serves as both seasonal greeting and gentle reminder of the principles the administration considers central to American identity—even as the nation faces evolving challenges both at home and abroad.
