State leaders from both parties pay tribute to Carter's 'servant's heart'

After his passing, state leaders across the political spectrum fondly remembered Jimmy Carter, the first U.S. commander-in-chief to reach the age of 100 and a former president.

The Georgia Republican governor, Brian Kemp, along with his wife Marty and their children, expressed their condolences to the nation in a statement, saying they are mourning the demise of former President Jimmy Carter.

Kemp stated that as the first American president from Georgia, he demonstrated the influence of our state and its people on the country. Additionally, as a native of the Plains, he highly valued Georgians and the virtues of our state, opting to return to his rural home after leaving public office.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, a potential successor to Kemp in 2026, paid tribute to the late governor, stating that Georgia, the country, and the world lost a man who embodied the essence of a public servant and put the needs of others before his own.

The Carters were described by Jones as kind and accepting.

John F. Kennedy, R-Fort Valley, Georgia State Senate Leader, stated that Carter's life was characterized by his servant's heart and unwavering dedication to our country and state.

According to Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns, R-Effingham, the lord has welcomed back his loyal and devoted servant.

He added "pragmatic wisdom of a peanut farmer, work ethic of a homebuilder, and unyielding faith of a Sunday School teacher" to the White House.

Stacey Abrams, the former two-time Democratic gubernatorial nominee, described Carter as someone who lived a life characterized by courage, fortitude, kindness, and grace.

Abrams stated that he was a large man who always viewed others as being smaller than himself. He demonstrated this attitude at Boys & Girls Club banquets and during his sponsorship of a medical clinic for the uninsured in rural Georgia, embodying James 2:17 every day.

Tributes poured in from all 49 states, outside the late Democrat's home state.

In neighboring North Carolina, Democratic Governor-elect Josh Stein praised the late president as a "principled man" who "embody the best of America: driven by faith and service and devoted to our country's pledge."

Gov. Kay Ivey of Alabama commended Carter, who grew up near the state border, for his Navy service and for inheriting and managing his family's peanut farm after his father's death.

Ivey stated that Jimmy Carter, the longest-lived former U.S. President, brought greater dignity to the presidency through his life.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, a Republican, stated that President Carter's life was exceptional and defined by his dedication to serving his country. He continued to volunteer his time to construct homes for the underprivileged even into his 90s.

State Del. Mike Pushkin, chairman of West Virginia's Democratic Party, stated that Carter's legacy is characterized by "humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to service."

Pushkin, D-Kanawha stated that true leadership is not about possessing power, but about uplifting others and making the world a better place. His work continues to motivate generations of Americans to dedicate themselves to public service and to work towards a more just and fair society.

Rhode Island Democratic Gov. Dan McKee stated that America lost a "great man, compassionate leader, and true humanitarian."

"President Carter's unwavering commitment to serving others and helping those in need set an inspiring example for all, as McKee stated. We express our gratitude for his contributions to our country and his lifelong pursuit of making the world a better place."

On Monday, a flag was ordered across the state at half-staff by a rising star in Carter's party.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro praised President Jimmy Carter as a humble, generous, and admirable public servant, both during his presidency and after as a citizen in service.

Outgoing Delaware Gov. John Carney praised Carter as a "champion for peace and human rights" in the current president's home state.

Delaware Gov.-elect Matt Meyer stated on X that Carter's life had a lasting impact on the world.

His humility and compassion made him truly extraordinary, according to Meyer.

Gov. Laura Kelly of Kansas described Carter as a "morally upright individual."

"He was known for his innate humanity, humility, devotion to serving his community and country, and belief in peace."

Gov. Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential candidate in California, honored the deceased.

"President Jimmy Carter, a champion for human rights and democracy, passed away, and we join the country and the world in mourning his passing," he said.

Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey stated that Carter demonstrated that "good people, with the sole desire to do good, can achieve success in politics and life."

Hawaii Democratic Gov. Josh Green expressed his state's sympathy to the Carter family, saying "Thousands of miles to the west, we send our Aloha and heartfelt condolences to the Carter ‘ohana during this difficult time."

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidate, commended President Jimmy Carter for embodying the essence of a life dedicated to service.

The Hyatt Hotels heir stated that his towering legacy of compassion for others set a standard that will always be remembered.