PLAINS, Georgia – In a remarkable show of civic duty, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, now 100 years old, cast his vote for Vice President Kamala Harris in the ongoing Georgia elections. The ballot was delivered by his daughter-in-law, Becky Payne, marking an important milestone for the former president, who has been in hospice care since February 2023.
A Vote with Purpose
Carter’s decision to vote for Harris comes at a significant time in his life. Despite his frail health, the former president had expressed his desire to live long enough to cast his vote. According to his son, Chip Carter, the former president’s intention to vote for Harris was a reflection of his longstanding commitment to the Democratic Party and his belief in the current administration’s values.
“He’s never voted for a Republican in his life,” Chip Carter shared with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, emphasizing the consistency of his father’s political stance over the years.
Voting from Hospice Care
Although some social media posts falsely claimed that Carter voted in person, video and images circulating online were from a different occasion—his 100th birthday celebration in Plains, Georgia, where he marked the day surrounded by family. Carter’s actual vote was submitted via mail-in ballot, a process that has gained significant attention in recent election cycles.
His daughter-in-law, Becky Payne, hand-delivered the ballot on his behalf, ensuring the former president’s participation in the election despite his physical limitations. Early voting in Georgia began earlier this week, and Carter wasted no time in casting his vote, fulfilling a personal promise.
A Legacy of Political Involvement
Jimmy Carter’s lifelong dedication to public service is well-documented, but even as his health has deteriorated, his commitment to his political beliefs remains strong. Having served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981, Carter has long been a vocal advocate for human rights, democracy, and global peace. His legacy extends beyond his presidency, with his post-White House work for the Carter Center focusing on conflict resolution, election monitoring, and public health initiatives.
In August, Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, expressed how much his grandfather’s values aligned with Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her someone who “carries my grandfather’s legacy.” His words, spoken during the Democratic National Convention, highlighted how much the Carter family sees Harris as an embodiment of Jimmy Carter’s ideals.
A Historical First
Jimmy Carter continues to make history in more ways than one. Not only is he the longest-living U.S. president, but he is also the first to reach the milestone of 100 years. President Joe Biden, reflecting on Carter’s contributions to American politics, described him last month as “one of the most influential statesmen in our history.”
Despite his frailty, Carter’s determination to participate in the democratic process stands as a testament to his enduring dedication to the principles he has championed throughout his life. As the world watches the ongoing political developments, Jimmy Carter’s simple act of voting resonates as a powerful reminder of the importance of civic engagement, no matter the circumstances.
