National Archives Takes Action to Ensure Proper Storage and Accounting of Presidential Records

The National Archives is taking steps to ensure that all presidential records are accounted for and properly stored. In a letter sent Thursday to representatives of former presidents and vice presidents from the last six administrations, the National Archives reminded them of their obligation to turn over all records created or received by the President as part of his constitutional, statutory, or ceremonial duties to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).

The letter was sent in the wake of classified documents being discovered in the homes of former President Donald Trump, former Vice President Mike Pence, and President Joe Biden over the last year. The National Archives is now formally asking former presidents and vice presidents to re-check their personal records for any classified documents or other presidential records.

The Presidential Records Act (PRA) requires that all records created or received by the President as part of his constitutional, statutory, or ceremonial duties be turned over to the National Archives. This includes all documents, emails, photographs, audio recordings, and other materials.

The National Archives is taking this step to ensure that all presidential records are properly stored and accounted for. The letter serves as a reminder to former presidents and vice presidents of their obligation to turn over all records created or received by the President as part of his constitutional, statutory, or ceremonial duties to the National Archives.

The National Archives is committed to preserving the history of the United States and ensuring that all presidential records are properly stored and accounted for. This letter is an important step in ensuring that all presidential records are properly stored and accounted for.