President-elect Trump and President Biden reacted to the death of former President Jimmy Carter on Sunday, with Trump saying, "we all owe him a debt of gratitude," and Biden honoring his "dear friend."
Carter, who was the 39th president of the United States and a peanut farmer whose vision of a "competent and compassionate" government propelled him into the White House, died at his home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday at the age of 100.
"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," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "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," the incoming president added.
JIMMY CARTER, 39TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DEAD AT 100
Trump later wrote that although he "strongly" disagreed with Carter philosophically and politically, he realized that the former president "truly loved and respected" the U.S. and all it stands for.
"He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that I give him my highest respect," Trump said. "He was truly a 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."
Also weighing in was President Biden, who said, "the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian."
FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER TO SPEND 'REMAINING TIME' AT HOME RECEIVING HOSPICE CARE
"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," Biden wrote. "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."
Biden referred to Carter as a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism.
He also said he and his wife will cherish seeing Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, together, noting that the love between the two is the "definition of partnership," while their leadership is the definition of "patriotism."
JIMMY CARTER CELEBRATES 98TH BIRTHDAY WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS, BASEBALL
"We will miss them both dearly, but take solace knowing they are reunited once again and will remain forever in our hearts," Biden said. "To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world. To their staff - from the earliest days to the final ones - we have no doubt that you will continue to do the good works that carry on their legacy.
"And to all of the young people in this nation and for anyone in search of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning - the good life - study Jimmy Carter, 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," Biden added.
Vice President Kamala Harris called Carter's life "a testament to the power of service," whether it was as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, Governor of Georgia or President of the United States.
"Throughout his life, President Carter was strengthened by the love and support of his partner of 77 years, First Lady Rosalynn Carter, whose life President Biden and I had the opportunity to celebrate in Georgia last year," Harris said. "After leaving office, President Carter 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," she added. "Doug and I send our love and prayers to the Carter family."
