“These last few months, 19 months, now that he’s been in hospice, it’s been a chance for our family to reflect,” he continued, “and then for the rest of the country and the world to really reflect on him. That’s been a really gratifying time.”
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A number of influential American political leaders posted celebratory videos in Carter’s honor, including former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Harris, who is currently running to succeed Biden, told Carter, “The world is so much better because of your leadership and your work, your commitment to peace, to decency, to democracy. And I just wish you the happiest, happiest birthday.”
“You’ve always been a moral force for our nation and the world,” Biden said. Praising Carter’s “moral clarity” both in and out of office, Biden added, “Put simply, Mr. President, I admire you so darn much…You’ve been a good friend.”
Remarking about Carter’s “fundamental decency,” Obama said, “Jimmy, thank you for your friendship, your example, and for always finding new ways to remind us that we are all created in God’s image.”
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“You’ve had a heck of a life,” said Bush, “and you’re surrounded by people who love you. May God bless you in your final years. May you have peace of mind and peace in your heart.”
. Carter is the first U.S. president to reach the milestone. ){kind=link}