Biden, Kamala Harris, Modi Reflect On Humanitarian Jimmy Carter
NEW DELHI (ANI) – Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, a beacon of service, peace, and humanity, passed away on December 29 at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia. His death was confirmed by his son, James E. Carter III, though no immediate cause was provided. The Carter Center had announced earlier in 2023 that the former president had entered hospice care following a series of hospitalizations and treatment for melanoma that had spread to his liver and brain.
Kamala Harris
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris hailed Carter as an inspiration and a testament to the power of service. “President Jimmy Carter was guided by a deep and abiding faith—in God, in America, and in humanity,” Harris said. She highlighted his achievements as a naval officer, Georgia’s governor, and the 39th president, noting his commitment to decency, compassion, and transparency.
“President Carter protected our air and water, promoted transparency in government, and brokered a historic peace treaty between Egypt and Israel at Camp David,” Harris said, adding that his post-presidential work through the Carter Center continued his lifelong fight for peace, democracy, and human dignity.
Recalling her personal connection, Harris shared: “I had the privilege of knowing President Carter for years and will always remember his kindness, wisdom, and profound grace. His life and legacy continue to inspire me—and will inspire generations to come.”
Joe and Jill Biden
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden also paid tribute to Carter, calling him an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian. The Bidens reflected on Carter’s global impact, noting his efforts to eradicate disease, promote civil rights, and advocate for free and fair elections.
“With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, and always advocate for the least among us,” their statement read. “Jimmy Carter showed that we are a great nation because we are good people—decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong.”
The Bidens extended their gratitude to the Carter family and staff, emphasizing that Carter’s life serves as a shining example of purpose and meaning.
State Funeral
The White House announced that an official state funeral will be held in Washington, D.C., honoring Carter’s lifelong dedication to service.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy as a moral leader, humanitarian, and advocate for global peace and human dignity leaves an indelible mark on the world. His century-long life was devoted to serving others, a legacy that continues to inspire.
Modi, World Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, praising him as a “statesman of great vision” whose efforts strengthened India-U.S. relations.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of former USA President Mr. Jimmy Carter. A statesman of great vision, he worked tirelessly for global peace and harmony. His contributions to fostering strong India-U.S. ties leave a legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of the US.”
UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid tributes to Carter’s decades of “selfless public service” and highlighted Carter’s “lifelong dedication to peace”.
French President Emmanuel Macron said, “Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter was a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and tirelessly fought for peace. France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people.”
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underlined how Carter rose from humble beginnings and remarked that his legacy is “best measured in lives changed, saved, and uplifted.”
Calling him a “lifelong humanitarian”, Canadian President Justin said, “My deepest condolences to the Carter family, his many loved ones, and the American people”.
Also Read: Jimmy Carter’s Legacy Lives On In Haryana’s Carterpuri Village
Jagrit Singh
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The juxtaposition of two figures at Jimmy Carter’s funeral this week highlighted a striking contrast in character and legacy. Carter, the epitome of integrity and humility, ascended to heaven, while Donald Trump, a convicted felon and former president, ascended back to the political arena. Carter’s post-presidency was defined by his dedication to humanitarian causes, like disease eradication and peacebuilding, while Trump’s legacy continues to be marred by lies, corruption, and self-interest.
Carter’s 77-year marriage to Rosalynn, his Sunday school teaching, and his outspoken advocacy for climate action set him apart as a man of genuine moral conviction. In contrast, Trump has faced multiple legal battles, including charges for falsifying records related to an affair with a porn star, and his policies have often been divisive, favoring short-term gain over long-term stability.
While Carter worked tirelessly for global well-being, Trump focused on dividing the nation with baseless rhetoric, often targeting marginalized groups for political gain. At the funeral, the display of old political wounds was palpable, with Trump largely isolated from his peers in the front rows, a clear signal of his outcast status within the elite political circle. The cold reception from figures like Karen Pence and Michelle Obama stood in stark contrast to the warmth and respect accorded to Carter by all who knew him.
In the end, both Carter and Trump were men who prided themselves on breaking norms, but their approaches could not have been more different. Carter’s life embodied the best of public service, while Trump’s legacy remains entangled in personal scandal and national division.
Jagjit Singh
January 13, 2025Los Altos, CA