Eight months after former President Barack Obama’s last day in office, a CNN source has leaked the letter Obama left for his predecessor on Inauguration Day – an American tradition when power passes from one leader to the next. Trump famously acknowledged receiving the letter, but refused to share its contents with the press.
The contents isn’t too exciting, until the fifth paragraph where, nestled among the platitudes and boilerplate, Obama leaves a warning for his successor:
“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.”
The warning is perhaps a manifestation of liberal anxieties that the Trump administration will “break” the presidency and forever tarnish its democratic institutions.
Read the full text below:
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
According to CNN, Obama didn't disclose the content even to his closest aides. Since then, however, Trump has shown the letter to visitors in the Oval Office or his private White House residence. CNN said it obtained its copy from someone Trump showed it to.
Upon reading Obama's letter on Inauguration Day, Trump reportedly attempted to call the former president to express his gratitude… but Obama wasn't available to take the call.
via http://ift.tt/2gvbQQW Tyler Durden