Arizona leaders react to death of President Jimmy Carter

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Arizona leaders are mourning the loss of former President Jimmy Carter, who was the longest-living president in the history of the U.S. at his death Sunday at age 100.

Carter died at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family, according to an announcement from the Carter Center. He served as president from 1977 to 1981 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

In the Grand Canyon State, leaders reflected on Carter's leadership and humanitarian legacy.

“President Carter was a fighter for everyday Americans, and that commitment continued after his presidency through extraordinary humanitarian work with his wife Rosalynn,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, a Democrat, said in a statement.

“I looked up to President Carter ― not only because he brokered landmark peace treaties or spearheaded major domestic energy policies ― but because he overcame historic challenges and accomplished incredible feats while remaining his authentic self. I especially appreciated his commitment to elevating young women to spheres of influence, and he appointed more women as federal judges than all previous presidents combined.”

Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., praised Carter’s work on foreign policy, including the Camp David Accords, which led to a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel in 1978.

“Above all, he was an honorable man with unimpeachable character,” Stanton said in a statement. “Guided by his deep Christian faith, he built homes for the needy and taught Sunday School well into his 90s. He set a fine example for each of us for what it means to love thy neighbor.”

Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., also reflected on Carter’s community service.

“Always humble, President Carter showed us that public service isn’t limited to elected office,” Kelly posted on social media. “He leaves a legacy not just as a president, but as a great American who wore the uniform, built homes for his neighbors and worked for human rights across the globe.”

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said in a statement that Carter showed what it means to live for others.

“America has lost a true servant leader,” Mayes, a Democrat, posted on social media. “President Jimmy Carter’s century-long life was defined by his integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving his country and his fellow man.”

Leaders from across the political divide offered condolences at the news of Carter’s passing.

Former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, wrote on social media, “May God bless Jimmy Carter. Politics aside, a life well lived, starting from humble beginnings. May he rest in peace.”

President-elect Donald Trump posted that he and his wife Melania were thinking warmly of the Carter family.

“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,” Trump wrote. “For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude.”

Other Arizona political leaders, including Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., and Senator-elect Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., posted condolences online and offered prayers to the Carter family.

According to the Carter Center, public memorial observances will happen in Washington, D.C., and in Atlanta, followed by a private interment in Plains, Georgia. Members of the public are encouraged to visit the official tribute website to Carter at www.jimmycartertribute.org.

Reach the reporter at cvanek@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X @CorinaVanek.

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