Tributes poured in for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who died at age 100 on Sunday. President Joe Biden declared a national day of mourning for January 9th, calling Carter an “extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian.” Biden’s statement urged young people to study Carter as an example of a life lived with purpose, principle, faith, and humility. He emphasized Carter’s impact on improving the lives of people globally.
Incoming President Donald Trump, in a statement on Truth Social, said Carter “did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans” and that the nation owed him a “debt of gratitude.”
World leaders offered effusive praise. King Charles III of the UK lauded Carter’s “dedication and humility,” while French President Emmanuel Macron described him as a “steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable.” Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, writing in the Guardian, reflected on Carter’s enduring legacy, emphasizing his post-presidency work as more momentous than his time in office. He highlighted Carter’s unwavering support for human rights and peace globally.
China’s President Xi Jinping sent condolences to President Biden, noting Carter’s crucial role in establishing diplomatic relations between the U.S. and China in 1979. Other world leaders, including India’s Narendra Modi and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa, also issued statements of tribute. Ramaphosa specifically acknowledged Carter’s outspoken criticism of apartheid South Africa.
Jan-Werner Müller, writing in the Guardian, argued that Carter was the most successful ex-president of the postwar era, citing his commitment to democracy, peace processes, and humanitarian efforts such as the eradication of guinea worm disease. Samantha Power, administrator of USAID, writing in the New York Times, highlighted Carter’s unwavering dedication to human rights, rooted in his Christian faith and commitment to civil rights. She noted his groundbreaking actions as president, such as publicly denouncing apartheid and supporting a Palestinian homeland.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee, referencing Carter’s 2002 Peace Prize, reiterated its praise for his decades of work for peace, democracy, and human rights.
Former U.S. presidents also offered tributes. Barack Obama praised Carter’s commitment to truth and the public good, while George W. Bush lauded his loyalty and deeply held convictions. Bill and Hillary Clinton expressed pride in their support for Carter and their collaboration with him after his presidency.
Other U.S. political figures, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Mitch McConnell, also paid tribute, acknowledging Carter’s lasting impact on peace and humanitarian efforts.
Vice President Kamala Harris and incoming Vice President JD Vance added their voices to the chorus of praise, highlighting Carter’s dedication to service and his embodiment of decency and compassion. Carter’s death, announced after 22 months in hospice care, marked the passing of the longest-lived U.S. president.