Letter President Bush Sr. wrote after losing to Bill Clinton

Despite losing to Mr. Clinton, Mr. Bush still sent his wishes for his opponent's success and gave advice on how to deal with critics.

Former US President George HW Bush (right) and former US President Bill Clinton. Photo: Blaze

During the final US presidential debate, Donald Trump indicated that he would not accept the results of the November 8 election if he lost.

Mr. Trump's statement goes against the American tradition of the loser calling the winner to admit defeat and congratulate him. The President also left a letter for his successor after leaving the White House.

Former President George HW Bush wrote a handwritten letter in 1993 to Bill Clinton, who defeated Bush in the 1992 race. Despite losing, Bush wished his successor well and offered advice on how to deal with critics.

Letter from Mr. Bush to Mr. Clinton. Photo: ABC

Bush's letter, released in 2011, read:

20/1/1993

Dear Bill,

Just now, when I walked into this office, I still felt the same sense of wonder and appreciation that I felt 4 years ago. I think you will feel the same way.

I wish you a wonderful time here. I never felt the loneliness that some past presidents have described.

There will be times when it will be difficult and even more difficult when criticism comes up that you may think is unfair. I am not really good at dealing with criticism to give you advice, but I would like to say that you should not let critics discourage you or make you give up on your plans.

By the time you read this letter, you will be our president. I wish you and your family good health and happiness.

Your success is now the success of the whole country. I will strongly support you.

Good luck,

George

Mr. Bush reportedly said in September that he would vote for Hillary Clinton in this year's White House race. His sons have also expressed their opposition to Donald Trump.

Despite Mr. Trump's remarks, Republicans said they would respect the election results.

"We believe we're going to win this race, so it's not going to be an issue, but either way, we're going to accept the will of the people," Republican National Committee spokesman Sean Spicer said.

According to VNE