RIP, James Earl Carter (1924-2024)

The longest-lived former president in American history has left the stage. Jimmy Carter, a one-term president, former governor of Georgia, and former naval officer, passed away earlier today  at the age of 100:

Former President Jimmy Carter, the Georgia peanut farmer whose one term in the Oval Office was plagued by problems at home and abroad but who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize after he left office, died Sunday in Plains, Ga.

He was 100 years old, the longest-lived former president in the country’s history. He had been in hospice since February 2023. The Carter Center confirmed his death.

The 39th president’s sole term in office was marred by a listless economy and stubborn inflation, squabbles within his party, gridlock in Congress and the seizure of American hostages in Iran. Considered a long-shot Democratic candidate when he announced his bid, Carter would broker a historic peace treaty between Israel and Egypt and set in motion other changes that would dominate global politics in subsequent years.

We will no doubt have time tomorrow to open a debate over Carter’s legacy, which remains controversial even in his post-presidential years. For today, we do best to recognize his service to his country in multiple ways. Donald Trump issued a gracious statement to remind everyone of those contributions, as well as the difficult times in which Carter served:

Good statement pic.twitter.com/1QMh4VjCV3

— Guy Benson (@guypbenson) December 29, 2024

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.

Trump added another post for a more personal observation:

President Jimmy Carter is dead at 100 years of age. While I strongly disagreed with him philosophically and politically, I also realized that he truly loved and respected our Country, and all it stands for. He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that I give him my highest respect. He was a truly 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. Warmest condolences from Melania and I to his wonderful family!

Requiescat in pace, Mr. President.