Local politicians, governor release statements on passing of former President Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter served as the 39th president of the United States. Photo from whitehouse.gov.
Carter passed away Dec. 29, surrounded by family at his home in Georgia
– Governor Gavin Newsom and local politicians released statements mourning the passing of former President Jimmy Carter.
Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement:
“Jennifer and I join the country and the world in mourning the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a tireless champion for human rights and democracy whose unparalleled life of service made the world a better place.
“President Carter was a man of rare character – whose beliefs ran true and ran deep, whose moral compass never wavered. He saw the common humanity in all of us, building bridges between people of different faiths and factions abroad while working to meet the needs of those at home. Despite daunting challenges and trying times, his bright energy and spirit never faltered.
“Service was more than a career for President Carter, it was a way of life. After leaving the White House, the Carters made it their mission to advance global peace and health through the Carter Center, improving countless lives over four decades of humanitarian efforts.
“President Carter’s candor and compassion, moral leadership, and sense of duty set a standard we all should aspire to. His enduring example reminds us that we can still find common ground despite our differences.
“Our hearts are with the Carter family, their loved ones and friends, and everyone grieving this great loss.”
Congressman Jimmy Panetta shared a photo of the day he met Carter in the 1970s, reflecting on the experience and Carter’s legacy.
“Jimmy Carter exemplified humility, grace, and selflessness as a president, public servant, and citizen of a nation that he loved with his whole heart. He didn’t just call on his fellow Americans to live up to our shared values as a country, he led by example, with a character and patriotism that we must demand from our leaders. America mourns the passing of President Carter and we must strive to live up to his legacy,” Panetta said.
Panetta also shared a personal memory: “In the summer of 1976, I met President Jimmy Carter on the campaign trail. It was one of my first political experiences and I’ll never forget him saying ‘I like your name.’ As a kid, I always was proud to share that connection as well as a birthday with the president.”
Assemblymember Dawn Addis released a statement highlighting Carter’s leadership qualities.
“President Carter exemplified the best of leadership: integrity and humility, environmental stewardship, and peace,” Addis said.
Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States, passed away Dec. 29, surrounded by family at his home in Georgia.
