Washington, D.C. — Following the passing of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, President-elect Donald Trump extended surprisingly warm condolences, despite a history of public criticism towards Carter. The gesture marked an unexpected pivot from Trump’s earlier harsh commentary, offering a reconciled tone during a poignant moment in national mourning.
Trump, in a Truth Social post, acknowledged the former president’s efforts “to improve the lives of all Americans,” stating, “We all owe him a debt of gratitude.” This expression of respect starkly contrasted Trump’s previous remarks, including those during his 2024 campaign where he had derogatorily referred to Carter as “the forgotten president.”
The interactions between Carter and Trump have been notably contentious in recent years. At a 2019 event in Leesburg, Virginia, Carter suggested that Russian interference in the 2016 elections helped secure Trump’s presidency, a claim that Trump vocally dismissed. The former president’s unease with Trump’s administration was further highlighted when Carter expressed concerns about the potential consequences of a second Trump term during a town hall in Atlanta.
Despite these frictions, Trump’s statements in the wake of Carter’s death highlighted a broader appreciation for the former president’s contributions, particularly after his tenure in the White House. Trump remarked on Carter’s “very consequential” role post-presidency, particularly noting his humanitarian work through the Carter Center and his Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for global peace efforts.
Reaction to Trump’s comments from his base has been mixed. While some followers criticized his positive recognition of Carter, especially his pardon of Vietnam War draft dodgers, others paused to reflect on Carter’s post-presidential achievements. Trump and his wife Melania offered their condolences, praising Carter’s dedication to the nation.
Carter’s death also brought together leaders from across the political spectrum. President Joe Biden, who had a longstanding relationship with Carter, announced plans for a state funeral in Washington, D.C., to honor the former president’s legacy. This event will notably coincide with the beginning of Trump’s projected second term in office.
Carter’s post-presidential work, including his near-eradication of Guinea worm disease and his efforts to foster democratic processes worldwide through election monitoring, has set a high standard for former presidents’ roles in humanitarian advocacy.
The state funeral in Washington will not only reflect on Carter’s presidency but also celebrate his extensive humanitarian contributions. These efforts underscored his profound impact on global health and democracy, carving out a significant legacy that resonated well beyond his years in office.
As the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its leaders, the complexity of Carter’s relationships with successors like Trump underscores the evolving dynamics of political legacies in American history. Carter’s influence and dedication to advocacy paint a picture of a president who continued to serve long after his term had ended, striving to uplift not only American lives but also those of individuals worldwide.