Bush left gracious letter for Clinton
A letter penned by George H.W. Bush for political rival Bill Clinton is being widely shared as a tribute to the late president.
Bush left the letter for Clinton in the Oval Office on the day of Clinton’s inauguration in January 1993. While other presidents have left similar letters, Bush’s has been lauded for its graciousness and civility.
The 1992 campaign was hardfought. Clinton made the economy his weapon, tapping into many Americans’ economic anxieties. Bush also faced challenges from fellow Texan H. Ross Perot, who ran an independent campaign.
“We have fought the good fight,” Bush told his supporters on Election Night, “and we’ve kept the faith.”
When it came time for the transition of power, Bush’s words were simple and kind: “You will be our President when you read this note. I wish you well. I wish your family well.”
During 2016’s historically divisive campaign, then-presidential candidate and former first lady Hillary Clinton shared the letter as a call for unity. Rereading the letter “moved me to tears, just like it did all those years ago,” she wrote.
The letter is again being widely shared on social media as a tribute to Bush. “A fine letter to be remembered by,” mused author Stig Abell.
Written on White House stationery, the note reads: Jan 20, 1993 Dear Bill, When I walked into this office just now I felt the same sense of wonder and respect that I felt four years ago. I know you will feel that, too.
I wish you great happiness here. I never felt the loneliness some Presidents have described.
There will be very tough times, made even more difficult by criticism you may not think is fair. I’m not a very good one to give advice; but just don’t let the critics discourage you or push you off course.
You will be our President when you read this note. I wish you well. I wish your family well.
Your success now is our country’s success. I am rooting hard for you.
Good luck – George