Former President Jimmy Carter was honored Tuesday in a brief ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda, where his body will lie in state until his funeral on Thursday. Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100, is remembered as a member of the Greatest Generation, a dedicated public servant, and a humanitarian who continued his service long after leaving the presidency.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), reflected on Carter’s early life on a farm in rural Georgia during the Great Depression, noting how those experiences shaped his values. “He knew the value of a dollar and he modeled thrift his entire life. As long as he was in office, he hated government waste,” Johnson said.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., highlighted Carter’s extensive post-presidency efforts, including his work with the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. “For the remainder of his life, the longest post-presidency of any American president ever, he focused on making the lives of his fellow man better,” Thune remarked.
Vice President Kamala Harris praised Carter’s humility and dedication to public service, citing his creation of the Departments of Energy and Education and the establishment of FEMA. Harris recounted stories of Carter’s personal touch, including his willingness to stay in supporters’ homes during the 1976 campaign and his acts of kindness while volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.
“Jimmy Carter was that all too rare example of a gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty, and grace,” Harris said. She described Carter’s commitment to living his faith and serving others, emphasizing that his actions left a lasting impact on the nation and the world.
Carter’s life and legacy continue to be celebrated as leaders and citizens pay their respects to the 39th president, whose devotion to public service and humanitarian efforts defined his remarkable century of life.
