How to Address a Former Public Official
When meeting an elected official, one worries about the proper way to address that individual. Formal society dictates that both "Mister President" and "President Obama" are acceptable. However, once that official leaves his or her office, the rules become more cumbersome. With a little information, you too can properly address a former public official upon first meeting.
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Instructions
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Address a former office holder as you would a current office holder upon first meeting or while addressing a letter. For example, addressing George W. Bush as President Bush would still be acceptable. However, addressing George W. Bush as Mr. President is not. The wording "Mr. President" implies that the person is still in that office.
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Remember to separate references with addresses. While it is acceptable to refer to former President Bush in conversation, it is inappropriate to refer to him as former President Bush if he were in your presence.
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Ask the former office holder their preference on address, if you are in a personal relationship with that person. Former President Bush, for example, might prefer to be called Mr. Bush while performing civilian duties.
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Tips & Warnings
Addressing a letter to a formal public official has the same etiquette rules as addressing that person in public. Err on the side of caution by using their former title.
Out of respect for a former public official, always refer to them as their former title with their last name until told otherwise. However, in the event that the person left office under some form of scandal, it might be prudent to simply refer to them as Mr. or Mrs.
