Biden Honors Carter with Eulogy, Highlighting Longstanding Political Ties
In a heartfelt tribute on Thursday, President Joe Biden delivered a eulogy for former President Jimmy Carter, celebrating a political alliance that spanned nearly five decades.
Biden remarked, “Throughout his life, [Carter] showed us what it means to be a practitioner of good works and a good and faithful servant of God,” further noting Carter’s forward-thinking vision, despite perceptions of him belonging to a “bygone era.”
Jimmy Carter’s political journey began when he was serving as the governor of Georgia and announced his presidential candidacy in December 1974. Initially deemed a long shot due to his limited national recognition and a crowded field of 16 contenders, Carter’s campaign gained momentum with critical support.
In a significant move in August 1975, Joe Biden, then the youngest U.S. senator and a rising Democrat, was the first to endorse Carter. This endorsement played a key role in Carter securing the nomination.
Biden took on an active role as a surrogate for Carter, expressing confidence in Carter’s ability to outperform President Gerald Ford in the debates during a 1976 interview with KFMB in San Diego. He stated, “I think the biggest thing the debates will do is firm up which way the undecided voters are going to go,” adding his belief that they would favor Carter.
Both Carter and Biden experienced single terms in the White House. Carter’s presidency is remembered for achievements like the enduring peace treaty between Israel and Egypt and the establishment of the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. However, his term was also challenged by economic issues and international conflicts.
During the 1980 Democratic convention, Carter faced opposition from Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy. Biden was among the senators who supported Carter, helping him retain the nomination. At the convention, Biden delivered a speech lauding Carter while critiquing Republican candidate Ronald Reagan for providing “false hope.” Delaware delegates showed support with a “Biden in ‘84” banner.
After losing the 1980 election to Reagan, Carter dedicated his post-presidency to humanitarian efforts, such as working with Habitat for Humanity and combating the Guinea worm disease in Africa. When he began this mission in 1986, there were 3.5 million cases, but by 2023, only 14 cases remained.
Biden acknowledged Carter’s humanitarian legacy, stating, “Jimmy Carter also established a model post-presidency by making a powerful difference as a private citizen in America and around the world.” He emphasized Carter’s embodiment of character and faith, extending from self to others.
Carter, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, passed away on December 29 at the age of 100.
