Statements from Donald Trump reveal a rare moment of reconciliation with political history.

Article by Victoria Newsome, Senior Transition Correspondent

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - President-elect Donald Trump paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter on Sunday evening, following the news of Carter’s passing at the age of 100. In two posts on his Truth Social platform, Trump shared remarks on the 39th president’s legacy.

The first post praised Carter’s commitment to public service during a tumultuous period in U.S. history, calling attention to the unique responsibilities shared by presidents. 

“Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club,” Trump wrote. “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.”

In a follow-up post, Trump balanced his recognition of Carter’s achievements with acknowledgment of their ideological differences.

“While I strongly disagreed with him philosophically and politically, I also realized that he truly loved and respected our Country, and all it stands for,” Trump stated. “He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that, I give him my highest respect. He was also very consequential… far more than most Presidents, after he left the Oval Office.”

The tone of Trump’s posts marked a notable departure from his history of mocking Carter’s presidency. On the campaign trail, Trump had frequently used Carter’s single term as a foil for criticizing President Joe Biden, once joking that Carter was “the happiest man” to see his legacy rise in comparison to Biden’s record.

The timing of Trump’s remarks, coming shortly after his announcement as President-elect, offered a rare moment of reflection on the challenges of leadership and the respect among those who have held the office.

Jimmy Carter, who transitioned into hospice care earlier this year, leaves behind a legacy of public service that extended far beyond his time in the White House. Leaders across the political spectrum have lauded Carter’s devotion to humanitarian causes, from advocating for global peace to tackling poverty and disease.

President Joe Biden announced that Carter would be honored with a state funeral in Washington, D.C., marking his extraordinary century-long life of service. Carter’s passing comes at a pivotal moment in U.S. politics, as the nation reflects on the legacy of leaders who shaped its modern history.

While Trump’s relationship with Carter’s legacy may have been fraught during his career, his words Sunday night offered a glimpse of unity that transcends partisanship. As Trump put it, Carter “truly loved and respected our Country, and all it stands for.” For many, those words underline a shared respect for the enduring American tradition of public service.