Former Secret Service agents have revealed a critical view of President Jimmy Carter's character, providing a stark contrast to the praise offered by President Joe Biden.

Ronald Kessler, an investigative journalist, claims agents found Carter to be one of the most disliked presidents in modern history, as Newsmax reports.

Kessler shared his insights about Carter during an interview on Newsmax, where he highlighted the contrast between Biden's admiration and the agents' recollections.

According to Kessler, Secret Service agents described Carter as the "most detested president" under whom they had served. This assertion is notably different from President Joe Biden's praise of Carter's "decency."

Following Carter's death, Biden described him as someone driven by integrity, voicing disbelief at the idea of Carter ignoring anyone in need, or speaking dismissively about anyone based on their appearance or speech.

Kessler's Book Sheds Light on Carter

The revelations about Carter stem from Kessler's investigative work published in The First Family Detail. During his discussion on Newsmax, he recounted anecdotes from Secret Service agents who had firsthand experiences with the former president.

According to Kessler, these agents portrayed Carter as distant and unapproachable, contrary to the image President Biden painted.

Secret Service personnel reportedly found Carter challenging to work with. Kessler alleged that Carter, in an attempt to project an image of relatability, would sometimes stage situations for public perception.

Kessler shared that Carter would walk with luggage, suggesting that he was a "common man." However, it was said that the luggage was often empty or merely filled with clothes only for the camera's view, after which aides would carry it away.

Claims of Staged Photo Opportunities

Such staged photo opportunities, as recounted by Kessler, were one of the actions that contributed to the Secret Service's negative perceptions of Carter. Agents also criticized Carter's behavior towards them. Kessler stated that Carter instructed agents not to greet him as he headed to the Oval Office, finding it burdensome to respond to their greetings. One agent allegedly claimed that Carter never spoke to him during their professional interactions.

These interviews conducted by Kessler draw a complex picture of Carter’s presidency from the inside perspective of those assigned to protect him. The contrast between these views and the public's more favorable perception of him is particularly striking.

Allegations of Military Disdain

Adding to the critique, Kessler claimed that Carter exhibited a disdain for the military. According to accounts from these interviews, Carter allegedly made derogatory remarks about the military. Kessler also contended that Carter's actions potentially threatened national security by keeping the nuclear football -- an essential element of national defense -- at a distance.

The interview, along with Kessler's book, provides an outlet for the voices of those who served as Carter's close protectors. Through their accounts, Kessler suggests a more nuanced look at Carter’s character, challenging the simplistic narratives often told in political praise.

Divergent Views on Presidential Character

These conflicting portraits reflect the intricate nature of presidential legacies and how personal accounts can inform -- or contest -- public perceptions. The portrayal of Carter as distant and occasionally dismissive offers a different angle on leadership that contrasts with the friendly image often associated with his post-presidential humanitarian efforts.

Kessler's investigation underscores how the recollections of those working closely with figures of authority can offer insight not always aligned with public sentiment. His book, and the interviews with Secret Service members, highlight the multifaceted nature of evaluating historical figures.

Evaluating Carter’s Presidential Legacy

Despite the stark revelations by Kessler, it is essential for readers to consider these perspectives alongside the broader context of Carter's life and work. While the agents' accounts paint a critical picture of Carter's interpersonal dealings, his contributions, especially post-presidency, to humanitarian causes have received significant acclaim.

In understanding these narratives, one can evaluate the full spectrum of Carter’s impact, balancing his achievements and flaws. As debates about presidential legacy continue, personal accounts like those presented in Kessler's work add valuable dimensions to historical discourse.

Ultimately, the varying viewpoints on Jimmy Carter reflect the complexities inherent in any leader's legacy, shaped by both public accomplishments and personal interactions. Understanding these nuances contributes to a deeper appreciation of historical and present leadership.