President Joe Biden honored former President Jimmy Carter on his 100th birthday, acknowledging him as a significant statesman in American history. Carter, who has been in hospice care since February 2023, is the first former U.S. president to reach this milestone age. Biden praised Carter as a moral force for the nation and the world, emphasizing his commitment to public service both during and after his presidency. He commended Carter for founding The Carter Center, a nonprofit organization aimed at improving lives in the U.S. and abroad, and for his humanitarian efforts such as Habitat for Humanity.
Biden also recognized Carter’s late wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96. The couple was married for 77 years, and Biden expressed his condolences, noting that while it was a bittersweet birthday for Carter without his wife, she will always be with him in spirit. Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, mentioned that her death had been difficult for the former president, but in recent months, he has become more engaged with the world. Carter had previously expressed his determination to live to 100 so he could cast a vote for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris in Georgia, a key battleground state in the upcoming election.
Carter, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2002, is renowned for his work on human rights and his efforts to resolve conflicts, advance democracy, and prevent disease. President Biden expressed his deep admiration for Carter, highlighting his moral clarity and tireless dedication to making a positive impact on society. Despite being defeated in his reelection bid by Ronald Reagan in 1980, Carter’s commitment to public service remained unwavering, and he continued to be a driving force for change through his philanthropic work.
The White House commemorated Carter’s 100th birthday with a display showing the number 100 and a banner sending him best wishes on the North Lawn. Biden commended Carter for his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place and praised his resilience in the face of personal loss. Carter’s son Chip noted that his father’s determination to participate in the election and voice his opinion against another term for Donald Trump reflected his strong belief in the importance of civic engagement. Carter’s legacy as a compassionate leader and dedicated public servant continues to inspire generations of Americans.
President Biden’s tribute to Jimmy Carter highlighted the former president’s exceptional leadership and humanitarian efforts, emphasizing his role as an influential statesman in American history. Carter’s work with The Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity has had a lasting impact on communities both domestically and internationally. Despite personal challenges, including the loss of his wife, Carter has remained dedicated to his mission of promoting peace, democracy, and social justice. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, Carter’s legacy serves as a reminder of the power of public service and the enduring impact of leadership grounded in integrity and compassion.
