John,

Today is the National Day of Mourning for Jimmy Carter. I had the honor of meeting President Carter in-person several years ago (pictured above) and wanted to share some thoughts on his legacy as a titan of Georgia’s and America’s politics.

As president, Jimmy Carter was known for his steadfast efforts to find peaceful solutions to international issues, promote human rights and democracy around the world, and lead through common-sense values.

But beyond that, I’ll remember him for the way he served our nation as an honorable man of faith, both before and after he left office. Jimmy Carter didn’t let his title inflate his ego. He wasn’t driven by the spotlight. He set an example of leading with selflessness and compassion.

Jimmy Carter lived modestly, returning to his peanut farm in Georgia after his presidency. But he didn’t just sit around either. He worked diligently to establish the Carter Center, expand Habitat for Humanity, and continue to serve as a trusted advisor on global affairs.

In this day and age, more and more politicians let greed and ambition interfere with the call to service. I am constantly inspired by President Carter’s moral compass. He held office for the right reasons, and never stopped fighting for our communities.

With love,

Lucy McBath