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Published on December 30, 2024
Nation in Mourning as America's Oldest President Jimmy Carter Passes at Age 100Source: Wikipedia/Department of Defense. Department of the Navy. Naval Photographic Center, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Following the announcement of former President Jimmy Carter's passing at age 100 yesterday, expressions of respect and condolences have flowed from political leaders across the nation. Carter, who held the record as America's longest-living president, last appeared in public at the funeral of his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, and celebrated his centennial with a U.S. Navy flyover.

Reflecting on Carter's legacy, New York Governor Kathy Hochul shared her sentiments. "President Jimmy Carter embodied decency and integrity throughout his life of public service. I'll never forget as a teenager meeting him in Buffalo. He was an inspiration to me and so many Americans," Hochul said, according to FOX 5 NY.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy praised Carter's healing role post-Watergate and his commitments to international peace. "President Carter was a man whose tremendous faith was equaled by his sense of moral courage and purpose," Governor Murphy commented, as per FOX 5 NY. Murphy highlighted Carter's efforts in brokering a peace treaty between Israel and Egypt and protecting the world from nuclear threats.

Leaders at the national level including President Joe Biden and former presidents offered their perspectives on Carter's wide-reaching influence. "He was a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism," stated Biden, announcing his decision for a state funeral in Washington D.C., as obtained by ABC 7 NY. Former President George Bush and Former First Lady Laura Bush underscored his post-presidential service, stating that Carter's "work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations."

The Carter family has organized a virtual tribute for those wishing to pay their respects. Details and statements from political figures across the spectrum, including heartfelt memories from former President Barack Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris, who spoke of Carter's profound grace and unwavering service ethics, reflect a national mourning and recognition of the late president's impact. These sentiments echo across the political landscape, as members of both past and future administrations acknowledge Carter's passion for bettering the human condition through his many roles in public service.