PBS News Hour

The history and tradition of presidential transition letters

Monday’s change of Oval Office occupants is a ritual full of traditions and customs. One of the more modern ones began in 1989, when Ronald Reagan left a note for George H.W. Bush on stationery with a whimsical bit of advice. John Yang speaks with Lindsay Chervinsky, executive director of the George Washington Presidential Library, to learn more about this tradition.

The history and tradition of presidential transition letters

4m 20s

  • April 9, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    April 9, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

    S2025 E99 - 57m 46s

    Wednesday on the News Hour, as President Trump hits pause on many of his tariffs, we look at the global response and how the back and forth is affecting American business and consumers. How the trade wars could affect personal finances. Plus, Judy Woodruff goes underground to explore some of the little-known and sometimes life-saving work done by government employees who are now being fired.

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