“Compassion.” “Moral leadership. “Devoted.”
Southern California’s lawmakers and politicos on both sides of the aisle remembered former President Jimmy Carter’s public service — and his humanity — as news of his death reverberated throughout the political world Sunday afternoon, Dec. 29.
Carter, the 39th president, was 100 years old. He was the longest-serving American president.
And his impact was greatly felt, even in Southern California.
It was Carter for who Rep. Lou Correa, for example, cast his first presidential ballot after he had turned 18, the Orange County Democrat said Sunday.
And it was Carter’s presidency that inspired Mike Madrid, a long-time political consultant, to get into politics — albeit, he said it was because of what he termed “the failure” of the Carter presidency.
Still, Madrid, a co-founder of the anti-Trump Lincoln Project who lived with “very pro-Carter” parents in Ventura County during Carter’s administration, had praise for the former president: “Jimmy Carter was a genuinely good and decent human being — which are not qualities we’re looking for in leaders anymore.”
But Carter, he added, “set a standard” for what presidents can achieve after their terms end.
“He was the last of his type, a Christian who put his faith ahead of his politics.” That mix, Madrid said, “served Carter well in his life, but it didn’t work for him as a president.”
Madrid, and many Reagan-era pundits, say Carter’s presidency was marred by everything from the Iran hostage crisis to high inflation to the Soviet Union’s military adventure in Afghanistan.
Carter — who grew up during the Depression and came of age during World War II — tried to apply values from that era during the “me”-oriented 1970s. His solutions for the gas crisis of the era were to lower freeway speeds to 55 mph and ask Americans to turn down their thermostats.
“He wanted us to sacrifice and conserve our way out of the energy crisis,” Madrid, a political consultant in Sacramento, said. “It was not what Americans wanted to do.”
But later, when Carter served as an envoy in the Middle East and in Africa, Carter’s integrity earned respect from leaders who often viewed America with suspicion. And Carter’s later work on humanitarian causes at home — housing, food, health care — are now emulated by nonprofits throughout Southern California.
“President Carter was a man of rare character — whose beliefs ran true and ran deep, whose moral compass never wavered,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “He saw the common humanity in all of us, building bridges between people of different faiths and factions abroad while working to meet the needs of those at home. Despite daunting challenges and trying times, his bright energy and spirit never faltered.”
“President Carter’s candor and compassion, moral leadership and sense of duty set a standard we all should aspire to,” the Democratic governor added. “His enduring example reminds us that we can still find common ground despite our differences.”
Rep. Young Kim, a Republican whose district spans Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, said in a social media post that her “heart is with (Carter’s) loved ones.”
“President Carter devoted his life to serving the American people, whether in public service or through his charity and humanitarian work,” Kim said.
Other reactions
Rep. Nanette D. Barragán, D-Carson: “Former President Jimmy Carter was an honorable man of service throughout his long, incredible life. He was always grounded by his love for his wife Rosalynn, his hometown of Plains, (Georga) & a sense of duty to work tirelessly to improve the lives of the less fortunate. He will forever be in our hearts & minds as a shining example of a life well lived — a life spent committed to peace, kindness, diplomacy & service to the global community.”
Rep. Julia Brownley, D-Thousand Oaks: “President Jimmy Carter was a true patriot and humanitarian whose impact will resonate for generations to come. His humility, compassion and unwavering dedication to the American people and the values we hold dear set a shining example of leadership and service. President Carter’s commitment to advancing peace, human rights and democracy around the world was unmatched. His integrity, selflessness and lifelong dedication to public service will continue to inspire leaders and people alike.”
Rep. Ken Calvert, R-Corona: “I’m saddened to learn of the passing of President Jimmy Carter, who dedicated his life to public service. His enduring commitment to our country will be remembered long after his passing. My thoughts are with the Carter family during this difficult time.”
Rep. Mike Garcia, R- Santa Clarita: “President Jimmy Carter’s passing is a loss for our nation. From his days as a midshipman at the Naval Academy to his service as our 39th president, he embodied leadership, honor, and compassion. Keeping the Carter family in my prayers tonight.”
Rep. Mike Levin, D-San Juan Capistrano: “President Carter exemplified what it means to be a public servant and humanitarian: selfless and persistent. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Rep.-elect Dave Min: “President Jimmy Carter’s tireless commitment to helping those in need represents the best of public service. From trailblazing a path for investing in clean energy to building homes for the most vulnerable, his legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders.”
Rep. Linda Sánchez, D-Whittier: “The passing of President Carter is a tremendous loss for our country. He served with compassion, humility and a quiet dignity that few can emulate. May his life spent in service to others be an inspiration for all of us.”
Sen. Adam Schiff: President Jimmy Carter leaves a legacy unlike any other. Ceaseless in his service, unbending in his dignity and revered for his commitment to our common humanity. He fought the good fight and kept the faith — and now he has finished his race. May his memory be an inspiration.”
Rep. Mark Takano, D-Riverside: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of President Carter, and my thoughts are with his family. May we all strive to live up to the extraordinary standard he set as a leader, humanitarian and man of the highest character.”
Rep. Norma Torres, D-Ontario: “Today, we mourn President Jimmy Carter, a leader of faith, compassion and service. His legacy of humanity and hope will endure. My thoughts are with the Carter family.”
Former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa: “Jimmy Carter was a man of character and integrity whose lifelong service to the greater good was most evident when he left office. His tireless advocacy on behalf of the unhoused was something I was fortunate enough to witness firsthand and a remarkable feature of a humanitarian who never stopped believing in the dignity of our neighbors. May we continue the legacy of President Carter through acts of selfless service to others to never stop uplifting our community.”
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
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