Staff Reports
In a twist that could only be compared to turning over a new leaf in an old history book, the news recently dropped that Jimmy Carter, the longest-living former U.S. President, has passed away at the age of 100. While the announcement wasn’t a colossal shock—after all, the man had been receiving hospice care for nearly two years—it nevertheless sent waves of nostalgia and, dare we say, befuddlement through the political realm. This moment made folks think about how different political traditions handle the passing of leaders, especially in light of the not-so-pleasant recent memories of coveting political demise on the left.
You see when conservative figures shuffle off this mortal coil, the right tends to express a modicum of respect—no matter the grievances held. Cue the left, however, and the ambiance shifts to one resembling a raucous carnival parade celebrating every perceived political victory. The irony here is thick enough to cut with a proverbial knife. The right won’t throw a party upon hearing political news that resembles a retirement home shuffleboard match—no, instead, they’ll honor the complexities of these individuals’ legacies, even when they might find it difficult. It’s an elegant showing of contrast that highlights fundamental decency often lacking on the opposite side of the political aisle.
Now, speaking plainly, Carter’s presidency was mired in controversy; many might argue it paved the way for some of the worst years in recent American history. Yet, there is a silver lining amid those clouds of misconduct. Unlike some of his counterparts—looking specifically at the current occupant of the White House—Carter certainly didn’t take the “how can I enrich myself today?” approach to governance. For crying out loud, this guy lived in a modest home after serving and famously built homes for Habitat for Humanity. How disheartening it must be for some on the left and certain members of the Biden administration to witness their current leader’s track record being eclipsed by a man whose big aspirations never involved political self-dealing.
But let’s put aside the hypocrisy for a moment. The truly laughable part of this whole affair came when photos of Jimmy Carter, now deceased, surfaced alongside Joe Biden. One can’t help but chuckle at the optical illusion: two tiny men sporting dangerously towering proportions. It resembled a scene that could’ve come straight out of a Munchkin musical—with Carter and Biden playing the roles of the Lollipop Guild serenading a different breed of political absurdity. If anyone needs visual proof that political legacies can look increasingly surreal over time, that photo is it.
However, amid memorial tributes and reflections, a truly appalling sight was unfurled for all to see—Carter, a political relic at this point, was trotted out as a campaign prop for Kamala Harris. Yes, when he could no longer string together coherent thoughts, the Democratic Party took it upon themselves to whisper sweet nothings into the atmosphere as they paraded his ghostly shell about to drum up votes. What a hauntingly ironic image that paints: a man who fought for morality and humility becoming a mere symbol in a play of political opportunism. Here we were, watching one party leverage a dying man’s name while the other expressed compassion and respect—even while expressing disagreements.
Now, with the dust still settling from Carter’s passing on December 29th, 2024, the political landscape will irrevocably shift from this point forward. Presidents come and go, but the essence of their legacies lingers far beyond their time in office. In a surprising twist of grace, Donald Trump offered warm sentiments about Carter, showcasing an honor rarely seen in the hostile battleground of politics. This is what truly sets the two sides apart; benevolence in remembrance stands in stark contrast to a side that revels in the misfortunes of others.
As we surmise the implications of Carter’s passing, it’s time to sit back and reflect on these absurd political theater antics—that the future might hold a bit of respect and decency infused into the very fabric of our political discourse.
