Praise for former President Jimmy Carter flooded in from around the world Sunday, with heartfelt condolences from U.S. leaders across the political spectrum.
The Carter Center announced plans for public observances in Atlanta and Washington, culminating in a private interment in Plains, Georgia.
President Joe Biden reflected on Carter’s life during impromptu remarks, urging leaders to draw lessons from his legacy. “Decency, decency, decency,” Biden emphasized when asked about the lessons Carter’s life could offer President-elect Donald Trump. Biden praised Carter as a personal friend and impeccable statesman, saying, “Jimmy Carter stands as a model for what it means to live a life of meaning and purpose.”
Trump, Clintons, and Obamas Honor Carter’s Memory
President-elect Donald Trump expressed his condolences on Truth Social, acknowledging the unique challenges Carter faced as president. “The challenges Jimmy faced came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we owe him a debt of gratitude,” Trump said, urging prayers for the Carter family.
Former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton released a statement highlighting Carter’s historic achievements, from brokering peace between Israel and Egypt to championing energy conservation and building homes through Habitat for Humanity.
The Obamas celebrated Carter’s lifelong commitment to justice, grace, and service. “President Carter’s decency inspired so many,” they said, recalling his impactful post-presidency and his words from his Nobel Peace Prize speech: “We can choose to alleviate suffering. We can choose to work together for peace.”
World Leaders Praise Carter’s Global Impact
More than a dozen world leaders honored Carter’s legacy on Sunday, many referencing his 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for conflict resolution. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino commended Carter for transferring control of the Panama Canal to Panama. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban praised Carter’s return of the Crown of St. Stephen in 1978, a gesture that gave hope to Hungarians during dark times.
Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi hailed Carter’s role in the Egypt-Israel peace agreement, calling it a landmark achievement in global diplomacy. King Charles III highlighted Carter’s lifelong devotion to peace and human rights.
A Legacy of Humanity and Controversy
Carter’s diplomatic work occasionally sparked controversy, including a 1977 visit to Britain where he was reported to have kissed the Queen Mother on the lips—later clarified in his autobiography as a light peck on the cheek.
Irish President Michael Higgins lauded Carter’s efforts to overcome obstacles to peace, expressing that Carter would be appalled by current global injustices. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked that Carter’s work improved lives, enabling many to live disease-free, safe from conflict.
Jimmy Carter’s enduring legacy of decency, service, and humanity will forever stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration in a world he helped shape for the better.
