Perhaps the Smoothest Transition in U.S. History?

[justseyi]

On Election Day, November 1992, President George H.W. Bush faced off against Democratic challenger Bill Clinton and Independent candidate Ross Perot in a historic race. By late evening, the results made it clear—Clinton had won. Perot had secured nearly 20 million votes (19% of the total), an impressive showing for a third-party candidate, but not enough to alter the outcome. As the night wore on, Bush recognized that his re-election bid had fallen short.

Shortly after the final polls closed, Bush called Clinton to concede, offering his congratulations. The next morning, in a nationally televised press conference, he formally acknowledged Clinton’s victory and pledged his full support for a smooth transition of power.

Later that day, Bush reached out to Clinton again, personally inviting him to the White House to begin the transition process. To ensure a seamless start, he even arranged for a plane to bring the Clintons from Little Rock to Washington. On November 18, the Clintons visited the White House, where Bush personally gave Clinton a tour of the West Wing and reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating the handover.

The next day, First Lady Barbara Bush extended the same courtesy to incoming First Lady Hillary Clinton, giving her a guided tour of the White House residence.

Then, on January 20, 1993, George and Barbara Bush attended Clinton’s inauguration—a gesture of unity and respect.

When Clinton entered the White House as the new president, he found a handwritten note from Bush waiting for him on the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office—a personal touch that symbolized the grace and dignity of the transition.

Perhaps the smoothest transition in U.S. history? Many would say yes.

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