President Joe Biden offered heartfelt congratulations to former President Jimmy Carter on his 100th birthday, praising the man he admires deeply. Biden described Carter as a “moral force” both in the United States and globally, acknowledging his courage, compassion, and conviction. In a birthday message shared with CBS News, Biden emphasized Carter’s enduring friendship and leadership.
Carter, who entered hospice care in February 2023, holds the title of the oldest living president in American history. The Bidens have maintained close connections with the Carter family during this time.
In August, Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, gave an update on his grandfather’s condition at the Democratic National Convention. He mentioned that his “PawPaw” was still holding on, hopeful about the upcoming November election. Despite his physical frailty, Jason assured that Carter’s spirit remained strong, noting his grandfather’s excitement to vote for Kamala Harris.
Throughout his presidency, Carter, a Democrat, achieved significant milestones both domestically and internationally. Among his key accomplishments were the Camp David Accords, which brought peace between Egypt and Israel, and the establishment of several important federal departments, such as the Department of Energy, the Department of Education, and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency).
Carter was also a proponent of environmental and safety regulations, advocating for tighter auto emissions standards and implementing seat belt and airbag requirements for vehicles. Though these policies were initially unpopular, they had a lasting positive impact. On the international stage, Carter established formal diplomatic relations with China and made Martin Luther King Jr. Day a national holiday. He also led major conservation initiatives, particularly in Alaska.
Despite his many achievements, Carter’s presidency ended after just one term in 1981. His handling of the Iran hostage crisis was heavily criticized, contributing to his loss in the re-election bid. However, Carter’s post-presidency efforts have since defined his legacy of service and leadership.
Biden praised Carter’s commitment to public service after leaving office, particularly through the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. Carter’s efforts have focused on resolving conflicts, promoting democracy, and improving public health around the world. Biden’s birthday message also highlighted Carter’s continued dedication to making a positive impact long after his time in office.
In his recorded message, filmed in front of Carter’s presidential portrait, Biden expressed deep admiration for the former president, saying, “Put simply, Mr. President, I admire you so darn much.”
Biden’s connection to Carter dates back to the 1976 presidential campaign when Biden, then a senator, was among the first to endorse Carter. In a joint letter with Senator Birch Bayh, Biden praised Carter’s ability to lead the nation, recognizing that being “right” on issues wasn’t enough—Carter also had the skills to achieve the nation’s goals.
The Bidens visited the Carters at their home in Plains, Georgia, in 2021, marking Biden’s 100th day in office. After the visit, Biden reflected fondly on their time together, recalling how they reminisced about the past, noting that the Carters are “old friends.”
