Here’s how Presidents Bush conceded to Clinton, McCain to Obama, and Obama to Trump:
Here’s how the last one-term president conceded.
With a speech, that reminded us of what it’s all about:
Then, with a letter:
“George H. W. Bush’s letter to Bill Clinton on the day Bill Clinton assumed the office of President of the United States.”
A bunch more:
Two more:
“We have come to the end of a long journey. The American people have spoken, and they have spoken clearly. A little while ago, I had the honor of calling ______ to congratulate him on being elected the next president of the country that we both love …”
“… These are difficult times for our country, and I pledge to him tonight to do all in my power to help him lead us in the many challenges that we face. I urge all Americans who supported me to join me in not just congratulating him, but offering our next president our goodwill and earnest effort to find ways to come together…”
“…Whatever our differences, we are fellow Americans, and please believe me when I say that no association has ever meant more to me than that.”
John McCain concedes to Barack Obama in 2008.
~
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,
BO
Obama->Trump
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