2008 Presidential Transition

“The Congress declares it to be the purpose of this Act to promote the orderly transfer of the executive power in connection with the expiration of the term of office of the President and the inauguration of a new President.”

The transfer of power from one administration to the next marks a significant moment in U.S. history.  The Presidential Transition Acts of 1963 and 2000 give the General Services Administration (GSA) a prominent role in this process.  They authorize the Administrator of GSA to provide the President-elect and the Vice-President-elect the services and facilities needed to assume their official duties.

Some of GSA’s responsibilities in support of the President-elect include:

• Providing temporary office space, parking, furniture, telephones, furnishings, supplies, IT equipment, mail management, payroll, financial, contracting and other administrative services for the transition team; 
• Consulting with Presidential candidates prior to the general election, to develop a plan for computer and communications systems that will support the transition between the election and the inauguration;
• Paying for travel, printing, postal services and other expenses;
• Developing in collaboration with the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) a transition directory to help familiarize key Administration officials with information about each department and agency;
• Coordinating orientation activities with high level nominees and appointees; and
• Supporting the Presidential Inaugural Committee

In addition, GSA provides a full suite of services to the outgoing President and former Vice-President as they transition from office.  These responsibilities include:

• Providing office space during the transition as well as a permanent office, communication systems, IT support, financial management, human resources management, telephones, parking, furniture, vehicles, office equipment, mail management and administrative support services, such as payroll and financial services, contracting, and other appropriate services;
• In collaboration with the National Archives and Records Administration provides support to former Presidents in the establishment and maintenance of their libraries.

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