Learning With: ‘Bush’s Letter to Clinton Cemented a Presidential Tradition, Historians Say’

Dec 03, 2018 · 65 comments
Sivan Frankel (Philadelphia, PA)
It is so amazing that George H.W. Bush wrote such a kind and heartfelt letter to Clinton despite campaigning hardly against him, losing the Presidential race to him, and opposing his political party and views. This shows that he was a true gentleman. America was so lucky to have such an amazing man as our President, and simply as an American citizen. He served our country in the Navy during World War II, and served as a Congressman before becoming our commander in chief. The United States has lost an incredible man. May he rest in peace.
Reza Chity-Guevara (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA)
This tradition seems nice and is a great way of transitioning between presidents. I also believe that the reason Mr. Trump chose not to share a portion of the letter with the audience was that ex-president Obama wrote something very sentimental that he wanted to keep to himself. It makes sense as the letter is addressed to Mr.Trump and has no requirement for him to share what he doesn't want to as it is for him and it is possibly quite sentimental to him.
Ami S (Phildelphia, PA)
George W H Bush dedicated his life to public service. He was a war hero and a president, but most of all he was respectful. The letter he gave to Clinton in a time of hostile political climate shows how respectful he was, and I believe he truly wanted Clinton to succeed. He started a wonderful tradition, which shows that even though two people might be on opposite ends of the political spectrum, they can still wish each other luck. I hope Donald Trump continues this tradition, because I think it is a great way to bring presidents together. May George Herbert Walker Bush rest in peace.
Natalia Bieszczad (Philadelphia)
President Bush was an amazing president and the United States was lucky to have such a devoted servant. I think that he was a good example for future presidents and America will miss him greatly and will think upon him as a man that spent his life serving our country. I think the tradition of passing on letters to the new presidents is a thoughtful idea. The letters help the new leaders get ready to work in the office and know what to expect. Through the letters the presidents can also prepare each other for the upcoming years and help mentally prepare for the stressful life of a president. Overall, I believe that President Bush was a wonderful president and will be missed. I also think that the passing on of letters is a great tradition that allows the presidents to help each other out.
Sienna Shelton (Philadephia)
I think that former President Bush was a wonderful president who did a lot for the United States. I think that giving letters to the new presidents is a really cool and thoughtful idea, but that the presidents could be more meaningful in them. I liked that Ronald Reagan's was humorous and even had a drawing.
Nicolas Dorazio (Philadelphia)
The United States is lucky that they had such a great public servant. I did not know about the tradition before reading the article, and it only seems fit that the tradition carries on. It just breaks my heart that we have lost someone as great as George Herbert Walker Bush. May he be reunited with his wife and daughter once again. R.I.P George Herbert Walker Bush, the 41st President of the United States of America
Samuel Hamilton (Philadelphia)
Prior to reading the article, I saw Bush as a president who stood against many thing I stand for not as a veteran, president, congressman, and father. Now I recognize that he was a man who worked hard to make this world into what he believed was best for it. I realize now that George H.W. Bush played a large role in many major accomplishments of our country, and the world has lost a strong leader.
Jonah (Philadelphia)
The United States has lost a hero, and a public servant. George Herbert Walker Bush was a great American, one who fought in the bloody battle over the Pacific, and led the country through tough times. The nation's heart is heavy with the tears of mourning of George Bush, who got Iraq out of Kuwait, crumbled the Berlin wall, and dissolved the Soviet Union in one term, which is only a fraction of his entire record. To conclude, may George Bush hold his precious Barbara's hand to his giving heart's content.
Laila C. (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
I did not know about this tradition until reading this and I think it is a nice thing to do. I hope this tradition gets carried on because it is a great way of letting the former and future presidents let politics aside and say something to one another. After watching the video of Trump speaking out about the letter he received, It made me wonder what Mr. Trump actually thought of it, because all he would say in the video was that he liked how much effort and thought was put into it.
Niara Hughes (Philadelphia, PA)
When writing this line he was advising Donald trump not let the power get to his head. When writing this letter Obama was talking from experience. Even though he is president, doesn't mean he gets to lose his democracy because he is on "top." Obama wants him to think about the all the people who help him get to the presidency and reward them by being their voice in the world. He seems most struck by the time and effort Barrack Obama put into the letter he gave him. Trump believed the letter was a thoughtful custom way for Obama to provide input. I think the rest of the letter has some constructive criticism on how Trump requires a change in his behavior. Furthermore, I believe the letter will give him a little insider help. Because if I wrote the letter I would tell Trump not to think of the country as a business but as a family.
Sam Doyle (Philly Philly)
While Donald Trump was talking about the letter, he seemed to be very struck by the thought that President Obama had put into the article. I assume when he was given the letter, especially because of the tensions during the 2016 election and the hateful comments they traded throughout that year, he didn't think that it would have this much thought put into it. I think that Donald Trump didn’t show the audience the letter because it probably contains things that is meant to only go from a president to another president. I think the letter contains maybe some of the things that President Obama learned throughout his term, like tips. It also may be contained some of the ideas for legislation that President Obama never got, so that Donald Trump could pick up the country were Obama left it. Regarding the statement from the letter “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.”, I think it means that no matter your political views, you should always push for positive change.
Rhoslyn K. (Philly)
- I think that Barack Obama wrote that statement wanting to say that it is up to Obama and President Trump to leave the bonds between former presidents like they were before both of them were there. Also, about how Trump should just focus on the things that need to be fixed, instead of focusing on the problems that are fixed. - Mr. Trump seems to be most struck by the thought in the letter. I think that he expected to have a short letter that would not say much. Instead, he got this lengthy, complex, and thoughtful letter. The interviewer even said that he has read lots these presidential letters, and this one seemed to be especially longer than the other ones. Mr. Trump said that the letter was so beautiful, and that he called Obama afterward to thank him. - I think he chooses not to share a portion of the letter with the audience because it was personal. Obama maybe said some things that were only for Mr. Trump to hear, instead of telling the whole world, or even just the country. They may have been bits of advice that everyone did not need to hear. - I think the rest of the letter says good luck. Obama maybe wrote that he is glad that he got to be the president, but now it is someone else's turn, and he is happy to pass on advice. The letter may have also had some things about how the White House works, or tips on everything that Mr. Trump may not be expecting, or ready for. There may have been different pieces of the letter talking about how to handle certain things.
Sarayah W (Philadelphia)
I think that former president Barack Obama left this statement for Donald Trump as a reminder of what the foundation of America is and that he was with him although their different styles of leadership. With two presidents that are polar opposites and one coming into office, there will be a major change in how the country is ran. Personally I would like to see the letters from past presidents have written for the new president that will be moving into the White House. Every president will be and have came into the White house should have a word of advice from the former one.
Liam S. (Philadelphia)
Mr. Trump doesn't really seem to care about the letter all that much. When David Muir (the reporter) asks him what part stuck out to him most, he said the entire letter was well written and so thoughtful, kind of dodging the question. I guess Mr Trump didn't show a portion of the letter to the audience since it could be Mr. Obama criticizing him and he didn't want to show the audience that. The letter could have also just contained confidential material hat he could not share with the public just yet or even at all.
Molly (Philadelphia)
I think that Obama said this because he wanted Trump to know he was on his side and give him words of advice as he became president. Regarding the letter I think Trump was most struck by the thought put into the letter and how beautifully written it was. I think the reason Trump choose not to share a portion of the letter was because it still seemed very private to him and still seemed like something meant for just him to see and he was not yet ready to share it with the public.
Anya Finlay (Philadelphia, PA)
I think that the tradition of a former presidents leaving a letter for their successor is amazing because it allows people to put aside their political views and take a minute to appreciate each other for who they are. I think that former president Barack Obama wrote, "Regardless of the push and pull of daily, politics, it's up to is to leave those instruments of our democracy at least as strong as we found the." in his letter to Mr. Trump because he wanted to make sure that he remembered to do what it is right for the country as a whole and not just because of things he hears in the news. The note was like a reminder to Trump to not base his decisions off of others political views and preferences just to prove them wrong. I hope that Trump will continue the the tradition and write a letter to the president that follows him.
Brian Eng (Philadelphia, PA)
I find it really cool how presidents are leaving letters for the next president in the oval office. I think Barack Obama wrote that statement because he wanted to make sure that Mr. Trump had the right idea of what the position of presidency entailed: that no matter how tough it gets in politics, he must maintain the democratic principles left by past presidents. I feel like when Barack Obama was writing the letter, he was thinking about the future of the country, and how he might be able to influence the country one last time by guiding future presidents who will lead long after he's gone. Mr. Trump seems to be the most struck by how thoughtful the letter was and how the letter was written in such a unique manner. I bet the rest of the letter that Mr. Trump did not share talked about how being president is a big honor, and more on how the future of the nation depends on Mr. Trump.
Amalia T. (Philadelphia, PA)
This tradition of the previous president welcoming the new one into Office with a letter, I think, is a good one. This letter shows the that even if the old president was your rival for the elections, that they are now on your side and are hoping for you to succeed because, as the now deceased President Bush said, “Your success now is our country’s success.” This is very true as without a good president, a country will crumble. This tradition of leaving a letter for the next president can help advise this president through his or her term and reassure them by letting them know that the previous president hopes you do well. It is also very interesting how something that started out as a way for President Bush to reassure President Clinton that Bush was not angry at him-but rather wished the best for him-has turned into a presidential tradition.
Jonnah Berger (Masterman, Philadelphia, PA)
The sentence,“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.” Means that no matter the political views we have, we should put aside our differences and do what is right for the U.S.A and the world. I think President Obama wrote that because he deeply cares about others and is empathtic. Also, he wants the future of the U.S. to be bright and hopeful. I think that President Trump was most struck by how thoughtful the letter to him left by President Obama was. According to Trump, "It was long, it was complex, it was thoughtful, and it took time." I think that really matters, because it shows that someone cares. Mr. Trump probably chose to not share a portion of the letter because it is supposed to be private letter not public. The leter probably says that e's proud and he should do what is best for the country. I would probably say that you need to do what is right and other things similar to President Obama.
Benga (Philadelphia)
I believe that Obama just wants to keep everything going well, and for Trump to keep it that way. When he wrote that in the letter, I'm sure he just meant that he wanted Trump to take care of everything. Trump's response was pretty accurate, he wasn't angry about it or anything, he just thanked Obama for doing that, Trump called him, and they went on with their lives.
Freddy Oquendo (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
I believe that president Trump's response wasn't accurate to what Obama may have wrote. That or Trump didn't really read it and gave a simple yet believing statement to the press. I came to this conclusion, because of the things going on at the moment. I mean who would read a letter from the former president when you have a lot of things going on. Such as the incident with the illegal immigrants trying to enter the country, as well as Trump only said two descriptive words to the press. Which included "THOUGHTFUL" and "LONG". In my opinion if the letter was long and thoughtful he would have had either more emotion or a descriptive understanding of the letter.
Kate Chin (Philadelphia, PA)
We can all agree on the hardships President Bush faced during his life. His presidency was very rocky, and must've been humiliated when Mr. Bill Clinton was elected for the second term. Instead of acting in spite, he acted civilly and supportive which is very respectful of him to do so. Reading through the letters each president had left for the next is very inspiring. It shows that presidency is something respected and contains well wishes, even if one is falling out of it. On another note, I find that Mr. Trump's reactions when talking about Obama's letter was quite suspicious. Why did he choose not to share it? If you delve deeply, all Mr. Trump said about the letter was how "thoughtful" it was and "kind." He starts repeating those two adjectives, which makes me wonder what was really in that letter and what he wants to hide.
Abdoul (Philadelphia)
-I feel like the letter that Trump got from Mr. Obama wasn't as nice as Trump made it out to be. If it was really that amazing than he should have made it public instead of not saying what happened in the letter.
Luis Lopez (Philadelphia,PA)
I think that Mr.trump was trying to keep this letter sacred a keep it for himself, I also think that he didn't want to give information from this letter without permission. If he didn't have any permission from Barack Obama I think Mr.Trump won't let anything on that letter get out. I think Mr.trump is so struck because he knows that this letter was longer then the others.
Max Linneman (Philly)
I think that Trump that was very struck with how thoughtful he thought the letter was which I think that every president receives the same sort of letter and that Mr. Trump thought that his was more important than the others. I really don't like Mr. Trump and it was kind of suspicious that he didn't share even a part of it that was " Thoughtful" because there seemed to be a lot of them and I just think that there is a possibility that he might of been lying about all these nice things that Obama said. If I was writing this same very letter I might just give him some general tips on maybe certain trading deals and stuff like that but, I also think that I would be honest about the pure fact that I disagree with a lot of stuff that he was planning on doing.
Maya Kowal (Philadelphia, PA)
I think that Barack Obama wrote in his letter "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." because he wanted Donald Trump to know that it doesn't matter who is president as long as you improve the country's strength and power. I also think he wrote that statement to tell Donald Trump to not focus on things people are already happy with, but on the things that our country is struggling with. Donald Trump seemed to be most struck by how thoughtful the letter was from Barack Obama. I think he chooses to not share the letter because of secrets that Barack Obama had shared with him in that letter. I also think that maybe there was something in the letter that Donald Trump wanted to keep private and not have the whole world know about. I think the rest of the letter probably tells Donald Trump words of wisdom and the best way to handle situations. If I were the person writing that letter, I would tell him what I did not have time to fix and I would tell him about my struggles. I would tell him to avoid my struggles by doing it in a different, smarter way. I would also tell him my tactics to hard and difficult situations, as well as simple fixes. I would talk about my experiences so that he could get a fell to what it's like being president.
Maeve McNichol (Philadelphia, PA)
President Obama is not the kind of person that I would expect to hold back any truth. This statement is really saying what he thinks the best plan of action would be for Trump's presidency. In a way, Obama is giving him only the best of advice and encouragement for the upcoming term. President Trump says that he completely appreciates the letter, and thinks it to be "beautiful". I believe that he is most struck by the thoughtfulness of this letter and he understands that Obama took time to write it. I think he chooses to keep the letter private because he wants to respect the mystery of i and leave it at the fact that Obama wrote him a very sincere, impressive, and thoughtful letter. I think that in the rest of the letter, Obama continues to offer ideas and advice on how to start the term. If I were writing the letter, I would want to wish President Trump luck in the upcoming years and tell him to go for the gold. Nothing is more honorable than being president of the United States of America. Soak it all in while you can- even the bad parts, because you'll get through them and you will continue on.
Jenesis Moreno (Philadelphia,PA)
I think the line from the letter to Mr. Trump is said because no matter who is in office and is the president, we need to keep this country as strong and maybe even make it better. also maybe that he has seen the U.S. in times of crisis and it's had it's times of rouble, but we have made it through and we need to keep doing that because without it how would we progress and really become a better America. Trump i was most struck by how thoughtful the letter was. Especially how it showed time and effort put into it. I think he didn't share a piece of it because it was personal to him and thought it was something of importance that wasn't for the public. Maybe it says things that we don't really know about that are little, but is changing the world for the better. Maybe keeping it secret was a good thing. I think I would have said to the next president that America at the moment has difficulty's and flaws, but this is our America and you shouldn't change it. Ever heard a person is perfect the way they are. Well America is perfect the way it is. I would also put a lot of words of wisdom and things that he could look back to and actually do something in his presidency. I would also tell him not to let stress and pressure get under your skin.
Anonymous (Philadelphia)
I think president Trump was most struck about how thoughtful the letter was, because he kept repeating that. or maybe he just didnt know what to say. anyhow, he didn't seem too interested in the letter. I think he chooses not to share a portion of the letter with the audience because he wants to keep the information private.
Rachel W (Philadelphia, PA)
Regarding the letter, Mr. Trump seemed to be most struck by nothing in particular, however, it seemed that he was "struck" by the whole letter. Although Trump continued to say that the letter was thoughtful and brung awe, he did not share a portion of the letter with the audience. I think that Mr. Trump chose to do so because he did not find a part of the letter that was that striking or moving to him. Although the letter was not shown or shared, I think the rest of the letter consisted of advice to give for the upcoming years in Trump's presidential term. If I was the person that was writing the letter, I would have given or written advice to the reader on how to deal with problems as a President that will come up in the term, explaining sorts of problems that might come up, how the people will react to certain actions as a president, and how to deal with the reactions. I would also write or list all the mistakes someone could make as a president, to prevent the upcoming president from making the problems.
Henry Scott (39.9634° N, 75.1657° W)
I think the line “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.” is a message to President Trump explaining that it's now his job to keep this country in good shape and leave it just as strong for the next president.
Yehuda Mahlab (Philadelphia, PA )
- I think the line "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.” means that no matter who holds the power of presidency, it is important to keep the country as strong as it was before or even better. - Mr. Trump was most struck by how "THOUGHTFUL" the letter was. Also, Mr. Trump talks about how thankful and appreciative he is of the letter from Mr. Obama. - I feel that it is strange Mr. Trump did not want to share any part of the letter at all. I feel as if something more then just words of wisdom were in that letter to Trump. Maybe things more serious and secret that the U.S and the world are not ready to know about. - If I were the person writing the letter to Mr. Trump, I would tell him my experiences and what did not work and what did. I would also tell him some words of wisdom and advice about being president and the stress & pressure it can bring you.
Janey L. (Pennsylvania)
I think that Barack Obama wrote, "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.” in his letter to Donald Trump because he wants Trump to improve on other things that need to be taken care of, not something people are already happy with. The instruments of their democracy are key parts in society, and Obama wants to Trump to rather break them down, or try to improve them, just leave them as they are. In the video, Trump seems to be most struck by the numerous well-written lines and the thought put into the letter. I think the rest of the letter talks about how Trump should continue will the role of President and what he expects from Trump. If I was writing this letter I would include a small part about my opinion of Trump as a person.
Justin Time Liu (School :< in Philly)
I think this tradition is a good tradition. Many of our presidents have left traditions that other presidents follow such as the line "so help me God" by George Washington, the turkey pardoning tradition started by Abraham Lincoln, and now the Presidential letter given from George H. W. Bush to the new president Clinton. This new tradition started by the elder Bush is only a fraction of what he has done to our country. Now, he has gone to the ages with all the other great presidents and it is time for us to pay our respects to a great statesman and leader
Eleena John (Philly, PA)
In the letter written by Obama to Trump when leaving office was a "thoughtful and beautiful letter" said Trump. A sentence that Trump shared from the letter was “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.” During the 2016 elections both the democrats and the republicans ended up in a huge political disagreement. The Democrats did not like the Republican ideas and the Republican did not like the Democratic ideas. When the 2016 elections came the two people running, Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton. They had many political debates resulting in bad opinions not in the Us, but all over the world. Obama wanted Trump to worry about America and not the about political comments. Obama also wanted Trump to be a strong leader and lead the American people in the right way just as the founding fathers did.
Sierra McKinley (Philadelphia,PA)
I love the fact that previous presidents are leaving letters for the new president. I find this helpful because it should help when you get info from a person who has been doing this for 4-8 years. I think Donald Trump was astonished about how much time and efforts Barack Obama put into this letter and largely underestimated him.I think Trump did not share some of the letter because it may have been confidential, it could of been tips on how to start off or some struggles Obama had. I hope that when Trump writes a letter for the new president i will be as thoughtful as obamas.
Ahsaan M. (Philadelphia, PA)
If I were the person writing this letter I would wish the next president in office good luck and give them tips on how to have a successful time in office. I believe writing letters to the ext president from the previous president is very thoughtful and shows much gratitude. I think President Trump didn't read any of his letter to the public because he wanted it to be one of the very few thing that is special and secret to him.
Aryan Patel (Philadelphia, PA)
The idea of former presidents leaving letters for the new president after ending their "reign" is very interesting and lovely. after President Trump was elected, former President Barack Obama left a letter for him. President Trump's reaction to the letter was astonished. He said that it was a "beautiful letter." He said that everything in the letter was well written and meaningful. He said that it was a very well mannered letter. When President Trump was asked to pick out his "Favorite line" he did not say anything. He just replied by telling us that it was very thoughtful. This makes me wonder what was in the letter, but President Trump said he would not reveal the contents of the letter.
Mariska (philly)
I think the sentence "Regardless of the push and pull of daily politics, it's up to us to leave those instruments of democracy at least as strong as we found them." Means the future presidents shouldn't ruin the changes past presidents have done, but continue in their footsteps to make out world a better place. i think Obama wrote this sentence because he wants Trump to know that they don't have to be enemies and that there are ways to make good change. Mr. Trump was most struck that the letter was so long and thoughtful. Way more long and thoughtful then past presidents. I think the rest of the letter talks about all the realizations Obama made as president to help trump in his oncoming years. If i were the one writing the letter I would talk about the good and the bad that come out of being president, how much your choice impacts the world and to consider other people's lives during the term. I would tell him he does,t have to be perfect and not all his choices will make the people happy but he has to be seen as a helping hand and not an enemy to the people of America.
Ona Stocovaz (Philadelphia, PA)
Mr. Trump did not have any particular part of the letter that struck him. He did say that the letter was written with great thought. I believe that Mr. Trump did not choose to share a portion of the letter with the audience was because he did not know which line to share with his audience, he did not have a specific line because he did not have a line that spoke to him personally. I think that the rest of the letter that Mr. Trump received said that being the president was difficult and it probably would never be easy, but it is worth it because it gives you a chance to help people and pass that responsibility on to someone else. I think this because of the sentence in the letter that says “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.”
Jason B. (FBI open up)
So watching the video, I could see that President Trump was grateful for the letter Trump wrote him. He was struck most by how many lines there were and how "complex and detailed" it was. He said that he should put the letter into the cabinet like in the tradition and just write a letter for the next president, but Trump states that it was too special. He called Obama and expressed how grateful it was, saying that it meant a lot to him. In the letter was probably about the previous presidency and how he managed it. There were probably emotions Obama dumped into it, which in this case, may have meant a lot to Trump, which is probably why Trump deemed it very special.
Jonah Levi (Masterman, Philadelphia PA)
I think that Barack Obama left this letter and said this line almost in a way so that Donald Trump would be able to learn and change. Even a little bit, I think this letter was trying change things for the better. Trump seemed to think that the letter was very thoughtful. I think that hr choses not to read this to the audience because I think it was meaningful and he would like it to be his own
Samuel (Masterman)
I don't think Trump even read the letter, much less thought about it. All he said was that it was 'very thoughtful' like it was the first word that popped into his head. If he had actually read the letter he probably would have said something like, "There was a part about ________ that really stood out to me." And it seemed to me like he really wanted us to know that he called Obama. He was trying to say something like, "Hey! Look at me! I called Obama and thanked him for a letter I didn't even read! I'm a big boy!" If he wasn't trying to convey that, then he would have waited for the interviewer to ask him about it and then mentioned it once. He really just seemed unproffesional in the interview.
Jessica H (Philadelphia, PA)
The tradition of writing a letter to the next president is really thoughtful, and it makes me feel optimistic about the future. These letters show that the presidents, even if it doesn't seem like it, support each other fully. It seems that Mr. Trump was most struck by the "numerous lines, so well written, so thoughtful." Mr. Trump chose not to share the portion of the letter with the audience because the letter was special to him. It was sincere and thoughtful.The letter wouldn't be special anymore if it was shared to the world to see. If I were writing a letter, I would tell them about my experiences, tips, and advice on how to be the best you can be.
Sarah Wong (Philadelphia PA)
The tradition we have created of leaving letters is, as our current president mentions many times, thoughtful. It would be very difficult with the busy schedule a president has, to actually set up a meeting, so this is an easy solution. It is also a chance to help steer your colleague in the right direction (if you are the former president). I did not know aout this beforehend, so I might look further into this intruiging topic in my spare time. It also gives the latter president the much needed guidance, as helping run the country is not easy. I wonde about the contents of other letters... are they simliar? please leave a reply if you have any fun facts to share :)
Angela X. (Philly)
I think the meaning of the small portion of the letter Mr. Obama wrote Donald Trump is that no matter how parties disagree on certain subjects, they all have to come together in the end to unite the American people. The democracy and the strength of America is there and has always been but we need leaders who are able to put our strength and intelligence to use. This comes to play in a democracy. And when you have a president who makes decisions based on what the upper class privielged heterosexual white people in America want and doesn't consider the minorities or the different sexualities, you have America divided. Into the deluded and into the struggling. That is what I would say in my letter as well as what I think Mr. Barack Obama had meant in his letter.
Arjun Ahya (Masterman in Philly)
I think that it is nice that former presidents are leaving notes for the next president. I hope that the letters contain advice on how to make the country better, but no real ways to do that. I say that because the previous president can suggest things to improve, but now it is the current presidents turn to turn their ideas and thoughts into real life, and make the country a better place. I hope that each president will put a lot of thought into their letter as Obama had put in his, and that they can maybe comment a few things to remember or to do. Mr. Trump seems the most struck by the fact that the letter was complex and very thoughtful. I think that he only chose to share part of the letter because it could be classified president stuff, and maybe could contain ideas that the President Trump does not want to share. I think the rest of the letter says things about how the country needs to address some pressing issues and to remember that this country needs to stick to its roots as a democracy. I was the person writing the letter, I would say that we need to cut down on coal usage and make sure that we do not die because of climate change.
Benjamin Chiem (Philadelphia, PA)
I really like the fact that the previous presidents are leaving letters for the following one. I hope that it's a tradition that continues for a while. Not only will it be a way for the previous president to give the next one advice, but it could also be a way to acknowledge all of Mr. Bush's hard work and a way to remember him. I'm happy President Trump was struck by the letter, it might encourage him to write a letter to the next president as well. I hope Mr. Trump will put as much thought into his letter as Mr. Obama had for his letter.
Hope A (Philly)
As we acknowledge the works of George Bush over the past couple of days, we can see how much we take for granted. No matter if you are old, young, democrat, republican, etc, you can see he has achieved great things in his lifetime. For example, he started a tradition of writing an encouraging letter to the incoming commander in chief on Inauguration Day. He even wrote a letter for Bill Clinton, who had beat him in the election. George Bush was a man of class, having one of the most valuable things: manners. He worked with grace and politeness. However, he did have a more down to earth side. He worked a job in an oil factory and even served time in the military. On top of that, Bush shared that he did not always wear fancy clothing on a daily basis and in fact liked country music, horseshoes, and pork rinds. While he did have all these leadership qualities to him, you could see he was only human. Bush tangled over sentences when he was nervous, delivered speeches in a "nasal voice" that wasn't emotionally moving, and was even caught looking at his wristwatch in a debate as if he were bored. All of these examples go to prove that he wasn't perfect, but he could "exhibit a gracious charm and authenticity". He had little to no enemies, maintaining a rather peaceful relationship with others. After his term as presidents, George Bush remained active and once parachuted out of a plane despite his age. This showing himself a man of spontaneity and action.
Hanna S. (PA)
I feel like what President Bush did really was great. Encouraging Bill Clinton and wishing him luck was such as nice thing for him to do, and I believe that this action demonstrated true leadership. This shows JUST how kind and supportive Bush was. This is a good tradition.
Naiima Jabati (Philadelphia)
I feel as if President George H. W. Bush served his life well with having many political roles, and taking a part of our country, for example, serving for the air force. He lived a long life and did the best he could for our country. I hope many people can take him for example and tale on with his ways.
Ivan Gutsol (Philadelphia)
Before reading the article, I knew nothing about George H.W Bush except that he was the father and former president of another former president George Bush. Now I realized that WOW this man is a real legend! Besides the fact that he was not the most loved president of the United States, he did so much in life, including serving in the navy, former Vice President, skydiving, Congressman of Texas, raising a son that became President.
Nico M. (North America)
I think Donald Trump was most struck by the meaning of the letter. In the video he was talking about how it looked as though it took time and that it was a very thoughtful. Mr. Trump probably did not want to share the letter because it might have private information if he just wanted to keep the letter to himself. The letter might say something about how his experience as president was and it might say to keep something as it is. If I was the person writing the letter, I would write about my experience and I would say "keep the country safe, good luck!"
Tino K. (Philadelphia)
President Trump seemed to be most struck by how thoughtful and beautiful the letter was. I think he chose not to show a portion of the letter with the audience because maybe it is something confidential between presidents like a correspondence. I think that the rest of the letter further states the qualities of former President Bush, I think mainly expanding on the fact that he was a man who led a simple life, a man who did not end wars by annihilating countries with air strikes. If I was the person writing the letter, I would first and foremost thank Bush for his service as a president, as being a president takes away a lot of time and it requires the ability to handle immensely important decisions strategically. I would also comment on how he ended the Cold War without firing a single shot when many thought the world would end in nuclear war. I would also comment on how he led a simple life, and would probably not have cared if all the money in the world was offered to him. Finally, I would offer his family my condolences, as it must be hard to not only lose a family member, but one of the greatest, bravest, and smartest presidents in the history of America.
Zareen Khan (Philadelphia)
Donald Trump was most astonished by the size and thought put into the letter, less of the content. I feel like President Trump was surprised that former president Barack Obama spent time and effort into the letter. The rest of the letter might have advice on keeping the country happy, and on doing what is right for America. Lastly, if I were the one writing the letter, I would have lots of criticism. I would tell Mr. Trump to think about people differently, not as just a race, gender, sexuality or color. I would tell him to think about others lives, and the fact they have emotions and families. To help and figure out illegal immigration, so it could no longer be illegal, but easier. That all muslims aren't terrorists, that they just believe in God in a different way that he does, and is just as valid as him. That there should be gun laws, because he is somewhat responsible for all the shootings in America this year. Transgender people are willing to lay their lives down for this country they love, and Mr. Trump is snatching it away from them. That's what would go on my letter.
Ayush P (VTS Moderator) (Aint' Nobody getting my location lollol)
President Trump was most struck by the way the letter is written and how thoughtful it is. He probably doesn't want to share a part of the letter becuase he thinks it is only meant for him and his family. He doesn't want anyone to read it. I think the letter talks about how he should handle the leadership. It talks about the experiences and things. I would say good luck and say global warming is real and other inspiring things.
Sophia (Philadelphia)
From my perspective, I think that it was very kind of Obama to write a letter to Mr. Trump. I think that Mr. Trump did not share the rest of the letter with us because it is personal and he is heart stricken that Obama dedicated his time to write this letter. The president should be able to appreciate and cherish his letter if it is that important to him. If he doesn't want to share it, he doesn't have to. The rest of the letter may talk about how to be a productive president and some tips on howto make proper decisions when in the executive branch. If I were writing this letter, I would talk about how to handle all the pressure, and talk about how to get along with the press and the other members that you have to work with.
Kristina (Philly )
Mr. Trump seems to be most struck by the thoughtfulness of former president Barack Obama and how much time he really spent on this letter. I think he chose not to share a portion of the letter because maybe it revealed factors from Mr. Trump's life that he thought should be kept private. The rest of the letter might've talked about the importance of trusting your choices and the people, as well as taking this job importantly because, after all, you are going to be leading these people for the next 4+ years.
Anna (Philly)
President Trump seems to be struck by how thoughtful and complex the letter was, and how much time President Obama obviously took to write it.I think he chooses not to share a portion of the letter with the audience because he wants it to remain private, just as it was intended. I think the rest of the letter talks about how he should approach the presidency, and how it doesn't matter how many people are perceiving him currently, because he can always change their views, or mindsets about him during his term. If I were writing the letter, I would say global warming is in fact, real.
g (the big p)
president bush was a good president and the stuff he did was pretty cool. i am surprised that he would make this letter since they were against each other, its something you don't see every day. i also agree that donald trump will not write a letter to our future president. he seems to be that kind of person.
Jason (:))
I think that it is very odd that Trump did not share any part of the letter and tried to avoid questions that asked him to share parts of the letter. I do not know why this is, although I suspect that it may be that he did not understand everything in the letter. This reminds me of a story in the news in which Trump called off the summit in Singapore to meat with the North Korean dictator, Kim Jong-un. After Trump's announcement, Kim Jong-un mailed him a letter. Upon receiving it, Trump said that the summit was back on, because he said that he was impressed with the size of the package. To this day, he has probably not read the letter! He also may not have read President Obama's letter, and when asked about it, he gave a few generic positive remarks. At least he "liked" the letter.
Lily Sklaver (Philadelphia )
I think that Obama wrote “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.” because despite the fact that they are from two different parties and view points, at the end of the day, they both have to complete the same job. Regarding the letter, Trump is most struck by the amount of thoughtfulness that was poured into the lines of the letter. I think Trump chose not to share the rest of the letter because he might not have wanted Obama to receive backlash, or there was something personal. I think that the rest of the letter wishes Trump good luck with running the country, and what he should be looking forward to. If i was the person writing the letter, I would talk about the challenges, wish my successor good luck, and talk like normal people despite our political views. In conclusion, RIP George H.W. Bush
G Jap (Philadelphia PA)
What Mr. Trump seems to be the most struck by in regards to the letter is how much thought and effort Mr. Obama made in writing it. I believe that he does not share a portion of the letter with the audience for reasons of privacy since this is a personal letter. The rest of the letter though is probably about advice Mr. Obama gives on how to be a good president and wishes of luck as that is what most presidential letters before were about. If I were Obama writing that letter, I would politely wish Mr. Trump the best for his term, and it would be short, like George Bush's letter to Bill Clinton, but with deep meaning, not to the point of sounding too saccharine though.
Ian Birley (Philadelphia)
I believe that this event was a tragedy and I am heartbroken about it, even though I did not know very much about him. I am very proud that our former president wrote a full letter to honor the fallen hero, but I wish our current president would have paid more respect to a man who has done so much for us.
Lily Chancey (Philadelphia)
It's amazing that president Bush created this tradition despite being the opposite political party of Bill Clinton. It's such an important tradition and I hope that Trump continues it.