Trump and Obama
Trump and ObamaReuters

For decades, presidents have maintained a special White House tradition, marking the changing of the guard in the Oval Office.

As their successor is about to be sworn into office, the incumbent president, as per the tradition, pens a personal letter to the incoming president, conveying what he feels was most significant about the office, and passing on what words of wisdom he can to the next Commander in Chief.

The tradition has transcended the partisan divide, with rivals and ideological foes setting aside their differences to offer warm wishes of success for the president-elect, even in cases where the incumbent was ousted by his successor, as in the case of George Herbert Walker Bush in 1992.

"I am rooting hard for you," the elder Bush wrote to Bill Clinton, who had defeated him the previous November. “Good luck.”

On Sunday, CNN revealed the contents of the latest transition letter, penned by President Obama for President Trump.

The letter, left folded on the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, was the last publicly-disclosed direct communication between the 44th and 45th presidents.

While the two have feuded for years, beginning with Trump’s allegation during Obama’s first term that the president’s birth certificate may have been forged, Obama’s parting letter as president continued the White House tradition, wishing the 45th president success in the office.

The letter read as follows:

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