Jimmy Carter remembered as statesman and humanitarian as world leaders respond to his death at 100
The death on Sunday of former President Jimmy Carter, the nation's oldest former president in history, quickly prompted tributes from the U.S. and abroad, with responses coming in from world leaders and ordinary citizens, celebrities and politicians and people whose lives he affected. Here are some of the reactions to Carter's death at age 100.
President Biden, first lady Dr. Jill Biden
President Biden and first lady Dr. Jill Biden praised Carter and mourned the loss of "an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian."
"Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what's extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well," the Bidens said in a statement. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe."
They urged Americans to study Carter, whom they described as "a man of principle, faith, and humility."
"He showed that we are great nation because we are a good people — decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong," the Bidens said.
In televised remarks Sunday evening, Mr. Biden said Carter "lived a life measured not by words, but by his deeds."
"We would all do well to be a little more like Jimmy Carter," the president said.
In an official proclamation Sunday night, Mr. Biden wrote, "President Carter was a man of character, courage, and compassion, whose lifetime of service defined him as one of the most influential statesmen in our history. He embodied the very best of America: A humble servant of God and the people. A heroic champion of global peace and human rights, and an honorable leader whose moral clarity and hopeful vision lifted our Nation and changed our world."
Mr. Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days and declared Jan. 9, 2025, to be a national day of mourning for Carter.
President-elect Donald Trump
In a statement posted on Truth Social, former president and now President-elect Donald Trump wrote:
"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."
In a separate Truth Social post, Trump later wrote:
"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!"
Former President Barack Obama
In a lengthy post on social media, former Democratic President Barack Obama reflected on the decades Carter spent teaching Sunday School lessons at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia — lessons that brought visitors from around the world.
"Some who came to hear him speak were undoubtedly there because of what President Carter accomplished in his four years in the White House – the Camp David Accords he brokered that reshaped the Middle East; the work he did to diversify the federal judiciary, including nominating a pioneering women's rights activist and lawyer named Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the federal bench; the environmental reforms he put in place, becoming one of the first leaders in the world to recognize the problem of climate change.
Others were likely there because of what President Carter accomplished in the longest, and most impactful, post-presidency in American history – monitoring more than 100 elections around the world; helping virtually eliminate Guinea worm disease, an infection that had haunted Africa for centuries; becoming the only former president to earn a Nobel Peace Prize; and building or repairing thousands of homes in more than a dozen countries with his beloved Rosalynn as part of Habitat for Humanity.
But I'm willing to bet that many people in that church on Sunday morning were there, at least in part, because of something more fundamental: President Carter's decency.
Elected in the shadow of Watergate, Jimmy Carter promised voters that he would always tell the truth. And he did — advocating for the public good, consequences be damned. He believed some things were more important than reelection — things like integrity, respect, and compassion. Because Jimmy Carter believed, as deeply as he believed anything, that we are all created in God's image.
Whenever I had a chance to spend time with President Carter, it was clear that he didn't just profess these values. He embodied them. And in doing so, he taught all of us what it means to live a life of grace, dignity, justice, and service. In his Nobel acceptance speech, President Carter said, 'God gives us the capacity for choice. We can choose to alleviate suffering. We can choose to work together for peace.' He made that choice again and again over the course of his 100 years, and the world is better for it."
Former President George W. Bush
Former President George W. Bush, a Republican who served as the 43rd president of the United States, said Carter was "a man of deeply held convictions."
"He was loyal to his family, his community, and his country. President Carter dignified the office. And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn't end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations. We join our fellow citizens in giving thanks for Jimmy Carter and in prayer for his family," Bush said in a statement.
Vice President Kamala Harris
Vice President Kamala Harris called Carter's life "a testament to the power of service." "He reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion," she said in a statement.
"President Jimmy Carter was guided by a deep and abiding faith — in God, in America, and in humanity," she said. "As President, he protected our air and water, promoted transparency in government, and brokered an historic peace treaty between Egypt and Israel at Camp David," and she noted that after he left office, he "continued his fight for peace, democracy, and human dignity through the Carter Center."
"I had the privilege of knowing President Carter for years. I will always remember his kindness, wisdom, and profound grace. His life and legacy continue to inspire me — and will inspire generations to come. Our world is a better place because of President Carter."
Sen. Raphael Warnock
Sen. Raphael Warnock, a Democrat who represents Carter's home state of Georgia in Congress, called Carter "one of my heroes."
"His leadership was driven by love, his life's project grounded in compassion and a commitment to human dignity," Warnock said in a statement. "For those of us who have the privilege of representing our communities in elected office, Jimmy Carter is a shining example of what it means to make your faith come alive through the noble work of public service."
Warnock spoke fondly of Carter and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who died in November 2023.
"He brought his family to worship at my church. At a family dinner, I remember the President and his amazing wife, Rosalyn, holding my daughter, then just two months old, as if she were their own granddaughter. They were among my favorite people," Warnock said.
Sen. Jon Ossoff
Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff, who represents Georgia, said Carter "will be remembered for his commitment to democracy and human rights, his enduring faith, his philanthropic leadership, and his deep love of family."
"From Plains to across the State of Georgia, the United States, and around the world, millions will forever admire and appreciate all that President Carter did for the United States and for the global community," Ossoff wrote in a statement. "The State of Georgia and the United States are better places because of President Jimmy Carter. I join all Georgians and all Americans in mourning his loss. May Jimmy Carter's memory be a blessing."
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, said Carter "personified the true meaning of leadership through service, through compassion, and through integrity."
"From his legacy as President, to his dedication to improving human rights across the globe, and his tireless efforts alongside his wife Rosalynn, in building a better world through Habitat for Humanity, he inspired millions with his unwavering commitment to justice and equality," Schumer wrote.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell
Sen. Mitch McConnell, a Republican representing Kentucky and the party's longtime Senate leader, reflected on Carter's humble origins as a peanut farmer and member of the U.S. military before becoming president.
"He returned home and saved the family farm before feeling drawn to a different sort of public service. And less than 15 years after his first campaign for the state Senate, his fellow Americans elected him leader of the free world," McConnell said.
"Jimmy Carter's character and commitment, just like his crops, were fruits of all-American soil. After every season when life led him to lofty service far from home, he came back home again, determined to plow his unique experiences and influence into helping others; into building and teaching and volunteering; into further enriching the same rich soil that had made his own life possible," McConnell said.
House Speaker Mike Johnson
House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, praised Carter's service to the nation and his efforts to advance the cause of peace around the world.
"Today, the thoughts of Americans and the prayers of Congress are lifted up on behalf of the Carter family," Johnson said in a statement. "President Carter's story was one of humble beginnings, and his life is a testament to the boundless opportunities available in this great nation. Because of his work in brokering the Camp David Accords and his advocacy with Habitat for Humanity, the world is a more peaceful place, and more Americans have a place to call home. No one can deny that President Carter led an extraordinary life of service to his country. May he rest in peace."
Secretary of State Antony Blinken
Secretary of State Antony Blinken lauded Carter as "a humanitarian who dedicated his life to promoting peace, democracy, and human rights."
"Throughout decades of public service, President Carter embodied integrity, compassion, and a commitment to advancing the freedom, security, and welfare of others," Blinken said in a statement. "He channeled that spirit in his foreign policy, from negotiating the return of the Panama Canal to its host nation, to developing arms control agreements with the Soviet Union. And he brought it to his every exchange and conversation, from heads of state to ordinary citizens."
Blinken also praised Carter for "mediating a landmark deal with Israel and Egypt that helped forge peace between two nations that had spent decades at war," noting his accomplishments serve as "an important reminder of what's possible, especially amidst renewed conflict and suffering in the region."
"Even after he left office, President Carter never stopped pursuing peace and advancing human rights, in ways big and small, often with his wife and partner of 77 years, Rosalynn, who passed away last year," Blinken continued. "For decades, they worked side-by-side, whether they were picking up hammers to help build homes for families in need, or leading efforts through the Carter Center to eradicate disease, resolve armed conflict, monitor elections, and promote democracy."
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III called Carter "a principled leader," "a great son of Georgia, and a steadfast champion of human rights and democratic ideals."
"Americans will remember President Carter for his leadership in office and his distinguished post-presidency, but the Department also honors his sterling service in uniform," Austin said in a statement, noting that Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and served in the Navy's submarine program.
The nuclear-powered submarine USS Jimmy Carter was commissioned in 2005 and a building at the Naval Academy was renamed Carter Hall in the late president's honor back in 2023.
"We also honor President Carter for his contributions to global security. The Carter Doctrine still helps undergird our commitment to stability and security in the Gulf. His administration worked to strengthen NATO and U.S. alliances worldwide, grapple with the Iranian revolution, and confront Soviet aggression in Afghanistan," Austin said. "History will also remember President Carter for establishing official U.S. diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China and for personally brokering peace between Israel and Egypt—the first peace treaty between the Jewish state and one of its Arab neighbors."
"President Carter's lifelong leadership and deep faith will continue to inspire Americans and people around the world. On behalf of the entire Department of Defense, Charlene and I send our deepest condolences to the Carter family," Austin said.
DNC Chair Jamie Harrison
Jamie Harrison, chair of the Democratic National Committee, said in a statement that Carter "exemplified what it means to serve on behalf of the American people."
"As governor, he was a trailblazer on environmental policy and stood up for civil rights and desegregation in Georgia. Throughout his presidency, he was guided by his faith, his selfless commitment to others, and his empathy. President Carter aspired to build a government grounded in competence and compassion and leave behind a country where dreams are achievable, and hope is more than an aspiration," Harrison said.
"President Carter's legacy extends beyond the White House and into his tremendous charity and humanitarian work," Harrison said. "A champion for democracy and human rights, he improved the lives of countless people through his decency, compassion, and devotion to his incredibly important work."
Carter "had long made significant contributions to advancing the development of China-US ties and fostering friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries", state broadcaster CCTV reported Xi as saying, adding the Chinese president was "deeply saddened by his passing".
Chinese President Xi Jinping
China's president, Xi Jinping, was "deeply saddened" by Carter's death, state media quoted him as saying Monday, according to Agence France-Presse.
Carter "had long made significant contributions to advancing the development of China-US ties and fostering friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries," CCTV reported in continuing to quote Xi.
Britain's King Charles III
King Charles said he learned of Carter's death "with great sadness."
"He was a committed public servant, and devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights. His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977.
"My thoughts and prayers are with President Carter's family and the American people at this time."
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid tribute to Carter's "decades of selfless public service."
"His presidency will be remembered for the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and it was that lifelong dedication to peace that saw him receive the Nobel Peace prize," Starmer said in a statement.
"Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad," he said. "Whether supporting elections around the world and spreading healthcare solutions through the Carter Center or still building homes with Habitat for Humanity into his nineties, Jimmy Carter lived his values in the service of others to the very end."
French President Emmanuel Macron
France's president, Emmanuel Macron, said Carter defended the "most vulnerable" and fought for peace.
"Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and has tirelessly fought for peace. France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people," Macron said on X, according to Agence France-Presse.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said in a statement that the U.S. "lost a committed fighter for democracy. The world has lost a great mediator for peace in the Middle East and for human rights," Reuters reports.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi
Egypt's president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, lauded Carter as "a symbol of humanitarian efforts" for the role he played in the historic 1978 Camp David Accords, which established peace between Egypt and Israel.
"His significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in the annals of history, and his humanitarian work exemplifies a lofty standard of love, peace, and brotherhood," the Egyptian leader said in a post on X, Agence France-Presse reported.
Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro
"On behalf of our Sailors, Marines, and Department of the Navy Civilians, I express my deepest condolences to the Carter Family for the loss of a respected public servant, committed family man and devoted American," Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro said in a statement Sunday night.
"His legacy lives on through Seawolf-class submarine USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23), the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum in Atlanta, and his countless incentives focused on improving the quality of life for people across the globe," Del Toro said. "His legacy will also shine where his naval career started in Annapolis, where I had the privilege of renaming an academic building at the United States Naval Academy in honor of President Carter."
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti said Sunday night that Carter was "an exemplary public servant and patriot."
"From humble beginnings on a peanut farm in Georgia, he began his adult life in the Navy, entering the Naval Academy during World War II," Franchetti said. "He said that his naval service prepared him for the rest of his life, instilling courage, self-sacrifice, idealism, and self-discipline which would combine to form his moral core. Throughout his life, he was guided by his unshakeable conviction that, "an individual is not swept along on a tide of inevitability but can influence even the greatest human events."
"His legacy and beliefs are imbued in the Sailors that set sail aboard the USS Jimmy Carter and walk the halls of the newly renamed Carter Hall at the United States Naval Academy," Franchetti continued. "President Carter's life of service will continue to be an example for us and help us navigate our course. His work is finished, but America's work continues. President Carter, we have the watch."
National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial
National Urban League President Marc Morial said in a statement that Carter "was that rarest of politicians who was driven by his faith and ideals rather than expediency," and said the National Urban League was mourning his death.
"Perhaps more than any modern president, Carter assumed the office with first-hand perspective on the impact of public policy on the lives of average Americans," Morial said. "He saw the poverty and indignity that segregation and discrimination forced upon the Black sharecroppers whose children were his closest friends. He saw his family's farm transformed by the Rural Electrification Act and other New Deal programs"
"From his first days in public office, as a Georgia state senator at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, President Carter challenged laws enforcing voter suppression and school segregation. In his 1971 gubernatorial inauguration address, he declared, 'The time for racial discrimination is over.' It was a radical declaration at the time. After George Floyd's murder in 2020, he repeated those words 'with great sorrow and disappointment,'" Morial said.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas
"President Jimmy Carter's legacy of leadership and compassion transformed our nation, from championing human rights to reimagining how we care for communities in need," DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said on social media. "His administration established FEMA, laying the foundation for disaster response today. We honor his memory."
