President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia, after a long battle with illness, and in his remarks, Biden praised Carter's enduring character and contrasted these virtues with those of his political adversaries.

Biden reflected on Carter's life and shared a personal memory while honoring the former president's legacy and family, though he also took an opportunity to jab his onetime rival, Donald Trump, as Fox News reports.

Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, died in his home after spending nearly two years in hospice care. Biden, who had known Carter for over five decades, expressed a personal sense of loss, calling him “a dear friend” and a model of integrity and humility. Biden praised Carter as a figure who embodied the values of faith, principle, and decency, qualities that Biden emphasized were especially important in today's political climate.

During his speech, Biden highlighted Carter's dedication to improving American lives, both during his presidency and beyond. "Carter is a model of what it means to live a life of meaning and purpose, a life of principle, faith, and humility," Biden remarked. He also described Carter as someone who led by example, offering his life as a guide to future generations.

Biden fondly recalled a memory from the 1970s, when he first worked with Carter during the latter’s run for president. As governor of Georgia, Carter approached Biden for assistance with his campaign. "He grabbed me by the arm and said, 'I need you to help with my campaign,'" Biden said, recalling the conversation. "I said, 'I'm not sure it will,'" Biden continued, describing how his initial hesitation was met with Carter's infectious optimism.

Despite their political differences, Biden emphasized Carter's enduring decency. He underscored that Carter’s personal values were beyond the political divide, making him a model for all to follow. "Some look at Jimmy Carter and see a man of a bygone era with honesty and character. Faith and humility mattered, but I don’t believe it’s a bygone era," Biden said. He continued, urging the audience, "We’d all do well to try to be more like Jimmy Carter."

Reflection on Carter's Principles and Decency

Biden further stressed the contrast between Carter's principles and the current political environment. He expressed disbelief at the notion of Carter walking past someone in need or referring to someone negatively based on their appearance or speech. "Decency, decency, decency," Biden repeated, emphasizing how Carter's actions exemplified true moral leadership.

While Biden's remarks were clearly centered on Carter’s virtues, the occasion also saw other prominent political figures reflecting on his legacy.

President-elect Trump, who has often been at odds with Biden on policy, issued his own statement on Carter’s death. Trump, who recognized Carter’s post-presidential efforts, acknowledged that their political views differed but praised Carter as a "good man" who had a lasting impact on American society.

“The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude," Trump said in his statement.

Despite their philosophical differences, Trump respected Carter’s dedication to the country. He also recognized Carter's significance beyond his presidential term. “He was truly a good man and, of course, will be greatly missed,” Trump added.

Trump’s tribute continued with a reflection on Carter’s post-presidential contributions, calling him “very consequential, far more than most Presidents after he left the Oval Office.” Trump acknowledged that while he disagreed with Carter’s politics, he understood that Carter "truly loved and respected" the United States and everything for which it stands.

A Political Divide Highlighted by Tribute

The passing of Jimmy Carter has drawn praise from both sides of the political aisle, though it has also underscored the stark differences between today’s political leaders. While Biden chose to focus on the positive aspects of Carter’s character, particularly his humility and integrity, Trump similarly honored Carter’s legacy but focused on his significant contributions after leaving the White House.

The bipartisan admiration for Carter stands in contrast to the increasingly polarized political landscape. Both leaders, despite their vast political differences, expressed respect for a man whose legacy was built on public service, humility, and a genuine love for his country.

Biden’s tribute painted Carter as a man who embodied the ideals of decency and service, urging Americans to follow his example. In his remarks, Biden not only celebrated Carter’s life but also made a pointed call for political leaders to embrace the values Carter held dear.

The contrast between Carter’s virtues and the current political climate was clear in Biden’s speech, as he encouraged his audience to reflect on what it means to serve with humility and honor.

Reflecting on Carter's Impact and His Enduring Legacy

Carter’s death marks the end of an era in American politics, and Biden’s reflection on their decades-long relationship serves as both a tribute and a call to action. Biden’s speech highlighted how Carter’s example of decency, humility, and faith stands as a model for public life, regardless of political affiliation. It was a reminder that public service should be about something greater than partisan gain, and that Carter’s life is a powerful testament to that ideal.

As the nation mourns the loss of one of its longest-lived presidents, Biden’s words serve as a poignant reminder of the values that Carter held dear, offering a hopeful call to honor those values in the future.