Hawaii's politicians remembered former U.S. President Jimmy Carter as an environmentalist, humanitarian, and peacemaker. 

Carter died Sunday at the age of 100. He had been in hospice care in Georgia for nearly two years.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green praised Carter for his commitment to justice and peace. 

"Today Hawaii joins the nation and the world in mourning the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a leader whose life was defined by service, compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice and peace,” said Green in a statement. “President Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his time in office. His tireless efforts for human rights, global diplomacy and humanitarian causes exemplify the values of aloha that we hold so dear in Hawaii. Through his work, he reminded us all of the power of humility, kindness and a deep care for others.”

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, remembered Carter’s accomplishments as president and those that he made after his presidency. 

“I join Americans across the country in mourning the loss of former President Jimmy Carter. As president, he worked to protect the environment, expand clean energy, champion human rights, and advance Middle East peace. After leaving office, he spent decades helping the less fortunate, in America and around the world. His legacy of service, kindness, and generosity will live on. My deepest condolences go out to the entire Carter family.”

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi reflected on Carter’s legacy as a leader. 

“Today, we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader, President Jimmy Carter, whose life was a testament to compassion, service, and humility. As a president and a humanitarian, he showed us the true meaning of leadership grounded in integrity and a deep care for humanity,” said Blangiardi.  

“President Carter’s lifelong dedication to peace, justice, and helping those in need resonated long after his time in the White House. His commitment to initiatives like Habitat for Humanity and his relentless efforts to eradicate disease and poverty were reflections of a heart driven by empathy and purpose,” the mayor continued. “On behalf of the City and County of Honolulu, I send our condolences to the Carter family and all who were inspired by his example. His legacy will continue to guide us in our pursuit of a kinder, more just world. Aloha Mr. President."

U.S. Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawaii, released the following statement, which focused on Carter's faith.  

“Faith, hope, service. These will always define President Jimmy Carter. Faith in God and humanity. Hope for our country and world and for each and all of us. Service as the purpose of life, each in our own best way. His was truly a life of consequence,” said Case. 

Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (District 8 – Kauaʻi, Niʻihau) focused on Carter's service during and after his presidency. 

"President Carter was a man whose humility, integrity and dedication to service shaped the course of our nation's history. His leadership was defined by his unwavering commitment to peace, human rights and the betterment of the world,” said Kouchi. “During his presidency and decades after his term, he represented what it means to serve with compassion and purpose. My thoughts are with his family, and I join the nation in honoring his remarkable life."

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include the statement from Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi. (Dec. 30, 2024)