Following the death of former President Jimmy Carter at the age of 100, American leaders from across the political spectrum paused to honor his life of service and legacy of compassion. President-elect Donald Trump, President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris each offered heartfelt tributes, acknowledging Carter’s impact on the nation, and the world.
“We All Owe Him a Debt of Gratitude,” Trump Reflects
Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a peanut farmer from Georgia, passed away Sunday at his home in Plains. Trump, writing on Truth Social, recalled the gravity of Carter’s time in office and the unique bond shared among U.S. Presidents.
“I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “The challenges Jimmy faced as President 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 all owe him a debt of gratitude.
“Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers,” the incoming president added.
While Carter’s political ideologies sharply contrasted with his own, Trump acknowledged the former president’s deep devotion to the country.
“He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that I give him my highest respect,” Trump said. “He was truly a good man and, of course, will be greatly missed. He was also very consequential, far more than most Presidents, after he left the Oval Office.”
Biden: “He Saved, Lifted, and Changed Lives Across the Globe”
President Joe Biden, who enjoyed a close relationship with Carter over six decades, issued an emotional tribute, highlighting the former president’s character, values, and unwavering belief in public service.
“The world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian.”
Biden reflected on Carter’s moral legacy and enduring friendship.
“Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well,” Biden wrote. “With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe.”
Biden praised Carter’s optimism and moral courage, calling his marriage to Rosalynn “the definition of partnership” and their leadership “the definition of patriotism.”
“We will miss them both dearly, but take solace knowing they are reunited once again and will remain forever in our hearts,” Biden said.
“To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world. To their staff – from the earliest days to the final ones – we have no doubt that you will continue to do the good works that carry on their legacy.
“And to all of the young people in this nation and for anyone in search of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning – the good life – study Jimmy Carter, a man of principle, faith, and humility. He showed that we are great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong,” Biden added.
Harris: “His Life Continues to Inspire Generations to Come”
Vice President Kamala Harris also released a statement reflecting on Carter’s life as a beacon of service and humility. She emphasized his journey from the Navy to the Georgia Governor’s mansion and ultimately to the White House.
“Throughout his life, President Carter was strengthened by the love and support of his partner of 77 years, First Lady Rosalynn Carter, whose life President Biden and I had the opportunity to celebrate in Georgia last year,” Harris said. “After leaving office, President Carter continued his fight for peace, democracy, and human dignity through the Carter Center.
“I had the privilege of knowing President Carter for years. I will always remember his kindness, wisdom, and profound grace. His life and legacy continue to inspire me, and will inspire generations to come. Our world is a better place because of President Carter,” she added. “Doug and I send our love and prayers to the Carter family.”
Legacy of a Leader Who Never Stopped Serving
Though Jimmy Carter’s presidency lasted a single term, his post-presidency work-building homes, monitoring elections, and championing human rights cemented his place as one of the most respected American figures in global humanitarian efforts.
As the nation mourns, the tributes from Trump, Biden, and Harris underscore one resounding truth: Carter’s life transcended politics. It was grounded in principle, service, and unshakable faith in the American spirit.
