(The Center Square) — Democrats and Republicans alike in Louisiana shared their respect and condolences for the former President Jimmy Carter, who died at age 100 on Sunday.
Many of the Pelican State’s top politicians took to X to pay their respects to the longest-living former president.
Gov. Jeff Landry said in a post on Sunday, “Sharon and my deepest condolences go to President Jimmy Carter’s family. He was a true public servant. May he rest in peace.”
Being a public servant was the number one way to describe President Carter for many. Here is what former Gov. John Bel Edwards had to say.
“President Jimmy Carter embodied what it means to be a person of faith and a public servant. An extraordinary man of truly humble beginnings, he worked hard every day to make life better for people here in the United States and around the world.”
State Sen. Royce Duplessis, D-Orleans, quoted Carter as saying, “My faith demands — this is not optional — that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have, to try to make a difference.”
Duplessis then added, “His unwavering commitment to civil rights & equality has been a guiding light.”
District 1 U.S. Rep Steve Scalise, R-La, commented on Carter’s post-presidential advocacy and philanthropy and time in the U.S. Naval Academy. Carter was the only academy graduate to serve as president.
“Sad to learn about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. I join all Americans in saluting President Carter’s lifetime of service — first as a naval officer, then as a senator in the Georgia legislature, then as Governor of Georgia, and, finally, as President of the United States. Jimmy Carter set the standard for post-presidential service through his work with Habitat for Humanity.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La, also gave a statement on Carter’s accomplishments not only as president, but in his life after.
“Today, the thoughts of Americans and the prayers of Congress are lifted up on behalf of the Carter family. President Carter’s story was one of humble beginnings, and his life is a testament to the boundless opportunities available in this great nation.
“Because of his work in brokering the Camp David Accords and his advocacy with Habitat for Humanity, the world is a more peaceful place, and more Americans have a place to call home. No one can deny that President Carter led an extraordinary life of service to his country. May he rest in peace.”
