Posted on Dec 24, 2016
Should past presidents attend the inauguration?
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Some past presidents have suggested they may not attend. H.W. gave health as a reason, he is 92. But what about others. Carter RSVP'ed.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4062578/Bitter-Clintons-consider-staying-away-Trump-inauguration-George-W-Bush-hasn-t-RSVPed-Jimmy-Carter-attend.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4062578/Bitter-Clintons-consider-staying-away-Trump-inauguration-George-W-Bush-hasn-t-RSVPed-Jimmy-Carter-attend.html
Elections
Election 2016
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Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 68
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I would prefer the outgoing President NOT attend. However, one may make a valid case for the outgoing President QUIETLY attending the swearing in of a new President...followed by a quick and quiet departure from the scene. Either alternative establishes a clear ceremonial "change of command."
In the Military, the outgoing Commander may give a quick address to the troops once the guidon is passed (quickly followed by an address from the incoming commander), but does not hang around after the ceremony since his tenure has passed. We should expect no less dignity from those who hold the office of POTUS.
In the Military, the outgoing Commander may give a quick address to the troops once the guidon is passed (quickly followed by an address from the incoming commander), but does not hang around after the ceremony since his tenure has passed. We should expect no less dignity from those who hold the office of POTUS.
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SSG (Join to see)
You mean like slipping out of a party? Well that's kind of the current protocol I guess. The outgoing president "quietly" departs on Marine One. I don't know how quiet one could be when you're such a high profile person.
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SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD
I hope the outgoing President doesn't hang around like Clinton did that day. I kept yelling for him to go. Just saying.
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If you are a living President currently collecting a Presidential pension, then it is your duty to be there. The symbolic passing of the torch is part of the transfer of power no matter how much you differ in personal politics.
Also... I thought that hazy figure in the background was supposed to be the "ghost of Reagan" until I realized it was Gore crashing the photo. That is literally the funniest thing in the world.
Also... I thought that hazy figure in the background was supposed to be the "ghost of Reagan" until I realized it was Gore crashing the photo. That is literally the funniest thing in the world.
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Suspended Profile
I forgot they are being paid just for being an ex-president. Now they have aa additional obligation to attend.
Cpl Justin Goolsby
MAJ Charles Blake - Indeed. The Presidential Pension is definitely one of my gripes in regards to government waste. I have friends who argue with me that they can't just work a regular job like before because of their "celebrity status". I say phooey on that. No one is above working, including the Presidents.
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Suspended Profile
Cpl Justin Goolsby - just between us, they do end up working, just like retired GO/FOs. They are corporate board members and such and get paid big bucks just to offer an opinion or to add prestige to the organization. Congress tells us that a 20 year pension is wasteful, how about a 4 year OTJ pension??!?
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Everyone has a valid point. As a Democrat I personally am embarrassed by all the shenanigans that went on during the election and is still ongoing. I was brought up to respect our Flag and President. While I don't agree with President elect Trump, I will respect him as our President. The Clintons and other past Presidents should attend out of courtesy and respect. Yet I shudder to think what a circus it could turn out to be.
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They can do whatever they want. Wanna go, then go. Don't, then they don't.
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I believe they should, barring any serious health conditions, such as H.W. Bush. It's a disgraceful gesture for them not to attend. I also believe it's their duty as a former leader of this country to support the the newly elected President. After all, they ARE still receiving a check from the United States government.
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I think they should, CW5 Andrew J. Foreman. However, should one or more of the former presidents choose not to, that's their prerogative. I don't think it will bother Donald Trump in the least should any or all elect not to attend.
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Health aside, they should all attend. Get over it and give the man a chance. Let's see what a "successful" businessman can do better. Are politicians afraid that Trump actually helps the middle class and we all realize they only serve to advance their self interest?
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