Jimmy Carter, Longest-Living U.S. President, Dies At 100 As Biden, Trump, And Others Pay Tribute

Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100. As the longest-living president in U.S. history, Carter was widely recognized for his humanitarian efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work in advancing democracy, public health, and economic development worldwide. Rarely referred by his full name, “James Earl Carter Jr.,” he remained a beloved figure for his dedication to peace and service.

Carter’s passing was confirmed by his son, James E. Carter, and his nonprofit organization, the Carter Center, which also shared the news on X (formerly Twitter). His death follows the loss of his wife, Rosalynn Carter, in 2023 at the age of 96. His final public appearance was during her memorial service, marking a poignant end to their wonderful legacy together.

Tributes poured in from leaders around the world, including 46th U.S. President Joe Biden, President-Elect Donald Trump, and several former presidents. In a heartfelt post on X, President Biden described Carter as an "extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian," highlighting his achievements in peace negotiations, disease eradication, mental health advocacy, and economic opportunities for developing nations. 

Carter’s enduring impact is widely known on global public health, particularly his efforts in combating Guinea worm disease and river blindness.

President-Elect Donald Trump also expressed his condolences on Truth Social, calling Carter a "truly good man" who worked tirelessly to improve America. Interestingly, Carter’s signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaty, which transferred control of the Panama Canal to Panama, contrasts sharply with Trump’s strong stance on the issue as the incoming 47th president.

Jimmy Carter's Personal Background and Career Highlights:

Carter is survived by his four children: John William "Jack" Carter (77), James Earl "Chip" Carter III (74), Donnel Jeffrey "Jeff" Carter (72), and Amy Lynn Carter (57). Born on October 8, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter lived a full circle, passing away in the same town where his journey began on December 29, 2024.

Before his presidency, Carter served as a member of the Georgia State Senate (14th District) from 1963 to 1967 and as the 76th Lieutenant Governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975. As the Democratic candidate in 1976, he defeated Republican incumbent Gerald R. Ford to become the 39th president of the United States, serving from 1977 to 1981.

Carter’s presidency is remembered for pivotal domestic and foreign policy achievements, including the Panama Canal Treaty of 1977, the Camp David Accords of 1978, and the National Energy Act addressing the 1970s energy crisis. He also pushed for deregulation in industries like airlines, trucking, and railroads, leaving a lasting mark on the nation’s economic landscape.