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A handwritten letter on White House stationery dated January 20, 2001, begins with Dear George, and discusses the responsibilities that come with leading the country. This remarkable document is known as Bill Clinton’s Letter to George W. Bush, offering words of encouragement and reflection from one president to another during a pivotal moment in American history. Bill Clinton’s Letter to George W. Bush
January 20, 2001

Dear George,

Today you embark on the greatest venture, with the greatest honor, that can come to an American citizen.

Like me, you are especially fortunate to lead our country in a time of profound and largely positive change, when old questions, not just about the role of government, but about the very nature of our nation, must be answered anew.

You lead a proud, decent, good people. And from this day you are President of all of us. I salute you and wish you success and much happiness.

The burdens you now shoulder are great but often exaggerated. The sheer joy of doing what you believe is right is inexpressible.

My prayers are with you and your family. Godspeed.

Sincerely, Bill