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Jimmy Carter. (Photo: Jimmy Carter Presidential Library).

Statements on the Death of President Jimmy Carter

By David Wildstein, December 29 2024 4:42 pm

GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY

“President Jimmy Carter was a man whose tremendous faith was equaled by his sense of moral courage and purpose. He saw a nation scarred by Watergate and sought to heal its wounds and restore its faith. He saw the promise for peace in the Middle East and took the first steps toward that elusive goal, including personally brokering a peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. He saw a world imperiled by the threat of nuclear war and endeavored to protect it.

“In addition to his accomplishments in public office, it is what President Carter did when he did not have an official title that has solidified his place among our nation’s greatest citizens. He served in the United States Navy with distinction. And he committed his life after the White House to charitable endeavors large and small to better our world – to promote peace, to fight disease, and to house the homeless, among so much else.

“We pray that, in rest, President Carter will be reunited with his beloved wife Rosalynn. And we are sending our prayers, as well, to their children Jack, James II, Donnel, and Amy, along with their families, and all who had the pleasure of knowing President Carter through the years.

“In his youth, few probably ever fathomed the lasting imprint this son of Plains, Georgia would leave on the world. He proved that good people, wanting nothing more than to do good, can excel in politics and life. And, as he leaves us, we are forever grateful.”

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR TAHESHA WAY

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, a man of unparalleled moral courage, faith, and humanity.

“While his presidency left an undeniable mark, it was his life after the White House that cemented his place among our nation’s greatest citizens. Whether building homes for the homeless, fighting disease, or advancing human rights, President Carter exemplified the belief that public service is a lifelong calling.

“His life taught us what it means to lead with compassion and purpose. I am sending my prayers to his children Jack, James II, Donnel, and Amy, along with their families, and all who had the pleasure of knowing President Carter.”

PRESIDENT-ELECT DONALD TRUMP

“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.

“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.”

U.S. SENATOR CORY BOOKER

“When I was in grade school, our teacher had a mock election in our class and I was so proud to vote for Jimmy Carter. He embodied so many of the qualities I hold dear – service, leadership, discipline, grace, kindness, and living your faith more than speaking your faith. But perhaps the value he epitomized most to me was radical love.

“One of the greatest road trips of my life was about 5 years ago, driving from Atlanta to Plains, Georgia, with John Lewis to visit with President Carter and Rosalynn and hear President Carter teach Sunday school to people from all over the world from all different faiths.

“I recounted my grade school vote, and how his lifelong legacy had influenced me throughout my career. As always, he accepted it with humility and humor, and then, as if thinking about my coming year or two, encouraged me to run for president “ONLY” he said, “if you run from here” and then he poked gently at my chest, at my heart.

“Thank you President Carter for a lifetime of inspiration, and a lifetime of service – and leading with love. May you rest in peace.”

FORMER SENATE PRESIDENT STEVE SWEENEY

“President Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to service, compassion, and unwavering faith. From the White House to his charitable work with Habitat for Humanity, his legacy is one of selflessness and a relentless pursuit of peace and justice. His impact, both at home and abroad, is a testament to his enduring love for humanity. My thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family and all those mourning this monumental loss. Rest in peace, President Carter— you leave behind a world forever changed for the better.”

SUMMIT COUNCILMAN GREG VARTAN

“President Jimmy Carter will continue to be an inspiration for those who believe that public service can be noble and that we all have a responsibility to do what we can.”

REP.-ELECT HERB CONAWAY, JR.

“Today, we mourn the loss of President Jimmy Carter, a true servant of peace, humanity, and compassion. His unwavering dedication to justice and his tireless work through the Carter Center have left a lasting legacy. Our hearts are with the Carter family during this time.”

REP. MIKIE SHERRILL

“Today we lost a dedicated American public servant. As a Naval Academy graduate and Navy veteran, President and a humanitarian, President Carter answered the call of duty every day of his life. The nation will forever be grateful for his service, patriotism, compassion, and integrity. Our country and the world have been blessed by his life and work. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Carter family during this time.”

REP. DONALD NORCROSS

“President Carter was a true American patriot who dedicated his life to public service. He served his nation honorably as a naval officer, governor, and as the 39th President of the United States. President Carter helped negotiate the Camp David Accords, created the Department of Education, and worked to advance democracy and human rights around the globe. His selfless work inspired me to get involved in government. Today, I join the entire country in mourning the loss of one of our nation’s great leaders.”

ASSEMBLY PRO-TEMPORE BENJIE WIMBERLY

“It is with deep sorrow that I join countless others in mourning the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. As a public servant, President Carter exemplified the highest ideals of leadership, not only during his time in office but throughout his extraordinary life. His legacy will be forever marked by his unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of all people.

“As a Navy veteran, President Carter understood the importance of duty and service to others. His military background shaped his character and fueled his tireless efforts to create a world where human rights are upheld, conflicts are resolved with diplomacy, and poverty is confronted with compassion.

“President Carter’s post-presidency years were a continuation of that same service-driven ethos. Whether working through the Carter Center to combat disease, promoting free and fair elections, or building homes with Habitat for Humanity, he showed us that leadership does not end when you leave office, our service is an oath to lifelong commitment to better welfare of the people. His deep faith and moral clarity never wavered, and he demonstrated that the true measure of a leader is not in titles or accolades, but in the good you do for others.

“As someone who has worked in public service and seen the profound impact of a leader’s character, I hold President Carter’s example in the highest regard. His legacy will continue to inspire not only those in positions of power but also everyday citizens who strive to make the world a better place.
“My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his remarkable life. I send my deepest condolences and prayers for strength during this difficult time. President Carter’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who believe in the power of compassion, justice, and the importance of service to others. May he rest in peace, knowing his life made a lasting impact on the world.”

IRVINGTON MAYOR TONY VAUSS

“It is with a heavy heart that I, Mayor Tony Vauss, announce the passing of our beloved 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, who left us at the remarkable age of 100. President Carter was not only a distinguished leader but also a man who dedicated his life to public service, embodying the values of honor, integrity, and compassion throughout his storied career.
“Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter began his journey as a humble peanut farmer, a testament to his deep roots and connection to the American spirit. His service in the U.S. Navy as a lieutenant laid the foundation for a life committed to duty and leadership. After returning to Georgia, he entered politics, ultimately serving as Governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975, where he championed progressive reforms and promoted racial equality.
“In 1976, Carter ascended to the presidency, a period marked by his unwavering commitment to human rights, diplomacy, and peace. His administration achieved significant milestones, including the Camp David Accords, which brought peace between Israel and Egypt, and the establishment of the Department of Energy and the Department of Education. His focus on social justice and environmental sustainability set a precedent for future leaders.
“Beyond his presidency, President Carter’s legacy continued through his tireless humanitarian work. He co-founded Habitat for Humanity and dedicated countless hours to global initiatives, reflecting his belief in the dignity of every human being. His post-presidency years were filled with service, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his lifelong commitment to promoting peace and democracy.
“As we reflect on the incredible life of President Carter, I am filled with respect and admiration for a man who served with honor and integrity. His humility, kindness, and dedication to the common good have left an indelible mark on our nation and the world. In an era often characterized by division, he stood as a beacon of hope and unity.
“Today, we join together in mourning the loss of a great leader and a remarkable human being. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he started—fostering peace, equality, and compassion in our communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.”

U.S. SENATOR ANDY KIM

“President Jimmy Carter gave us a pure and lasting example of a public servant. His life and legacy will forever be a lesson on the power in one person’s will to do good. I’m sending love to the Carter family today as we honor his life and untiring, humble mission to help others.”

EAST ORANGE MAYOR TED GREEN

“On behalf of the City of East Orange, I extend deepest condolences to the Family of Former U.S. President James Earl Carter, Jr. President Carter, a distinguished recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 who also served as the 76th Governor of Georgia and as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy, led our nation with great integrity during his time in office from 1976-1980. However, it was the four decades that followed his presidency that truly defined his courage, compassion, and remarkable character.
“Alongside his beloved wife, Rosalynn, President Carter co-founded The Carter Center, an organization committed to improving global health and promoting peace. Throughout his life, he was an ardent champion of the people and the advancement of human rights and social justice.

“Notably, he played a pivotal role in creating affordable housing through his groundbreaking support of Habitat for Humanity. May President Carter’s legacy of service continue to inspire us all, and may he rest in perfect peace.”

 

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