Former President Jimmy Carter, who made several significant visits to Wisconsin during his political career and humanitarian work, died Sunday in Georgia at age 100.
Wisconsin’s political world reacted to the news Sunday afternoon, celebrating Carter’s public service during — and beyond — his presidency.
Here are some of the bipartisan tributes Wisconsin politicians posted on social media or released through statements. This story may be updated as more Wisconsin figures react.
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers
Democratic Gov. Tony Evers called Carter “a committed and dedicated advocate for peace, human rights, and treating others with dignity, decency, and respect — qualities that earned him respect and admiration from many across our country and around the world.”
“He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of humanitarian and public health achievements not only during and throughout his presidency but beyond it, as well,” Evers said in a statement.
Evers said he and first lady Kathy Evers extend their sympathies to Carter’s family and loved ones.
Evers said he will soon order U.S. and state flags to fly at half-staff in Wisconsin in accordance with federal law, which requires the U.S. flag to fly at half-staff for 30 days following the death of a former president.
U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin
Baldwin, a Democrat representing Wisconsin in the U.S. Senate, said Carter “was a leader who dedicated his life to fighting for others.”
“While he will be sorely missed, his legacy of compassion, humility, and service will long be remembered and honored. My heart is with the Carter family and American people mourning this loss,” Baldwin said.
U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald, a Republican who represents the Milwaukee suburbs in Congress, said he was “sad to hear of the passing of former President Jimmy Carter.”
“He gave decades of dedicated service to our country — as a naval officer, a state senator, Governor of Georgia, and as President. I pray for the Carter family to find peace during this difficult time,” Fitzgerald said.
U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden
Van Orden, who represents the western part of Wisconsin, said Carter “served our nation as a Navy man, president, and humanitarian.”
“May God grant him gentle repose and his family, peace,” Van Orden said.
U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan
Pocan, a Democrat who represents the Madison area, called Carter a “great American.”
“From his groundbreaking work for peace in the Middle East to his decades of work with Habitat for Humanity, he was a beacon of service. A champion for human rights, including LGBTQI+, he was a role model for many. He will be missed,” Pocan said.
U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore
“Today as we mourn the loss of President Jimmy Carter, we must remember and honor his remarkable life,” said Moore, a Democrat who represents the Milwaukee area.
“A true public servant, he dedicated his life to peace, compassion, and service. His legacy of humility and humanity will inspire generations to come.”
U.S. Rep. Tony Wied
“RIP to former President Jimmy Carter. My prayers are with his family at this time and I am thankful for his service to our country,” said Wied, a newly elected Republican representing northeastern Wisconsin.
State Rep. Barbara Dittrich
“My thanks for President Carter’s service to our great nation. God bless his loved ones as they grieve his passing,” said Dittrich, a Republican state representative from Oconomowoc.
Democratic Party of Wisconsin chair Ben Wikler
Wikler, who is running to lead the Democratic National Committee, called Carter “a visionary leader and a singularly good person.”
“His remarkable lifetime of service — from Plains, Georgia to the White House and beyond — exemplified the best of what America could be,” Wikler said in a statement. “His loss is felt in all corners of our country, and the Democratic Party of Wisconsin offers our deepest condolences to President Carter’s family and loved ones.”
