Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune delivered remarks on the Senate floor, honoring former President Jimmy Carter as he arrived at the Capitol to lie in state. Thune highlighted Carter's journey from humble beginnings on a peanut farm in Plains, Georgia, to becoming the 39th president of the United States.

Thune noted Carter's presidency was marked by significant achievements, including brokering a peace agreement between Egypt and Israel. However, it was Carter's post-presidency work that defined his legacy. After leaving office in 1981, Carter dedicated himself to causes of peace and human rights.

Together with his wife Rosalynn, Carter founded the Carter Center, which has been instrumental in eradicating diseases like Guinea worm disease. "Through the first 10 months of 2024, there were just seven reported cases," Thune stated.

Carter was also known for his hands-on involvement with Habitat for Humanity. "He built houses... well into his 90s," said Thune. The Carters' work with Habitat has resulted in thousands of homes being built across multiple countries.

Thune emphasized that Carter's service was driven by his Christian faith. "'… one of the best ways to practice my faith as a Christian,' he would say, 'is to participate in Habitat projects every year,'" quoted Thune.

The senator concluded by acknowledging Carter's long marriage to Rosalynn and expressed condolences to their family while reflecting on their reunion after her passing last year.