Former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral service on Thursday at the National Cathedral was not just a moment to mourn his passing but also to celebrate the enduring impact of his visionary leadership. Jason Carter, Carter’s grandson, delivered an emotional eulogy that highlighted the late president’s groundbreaking stances on progressive policies—many of which were decades ahead of their time.
“The First Millennial”: A Progressive Leader Before His Time
Jason Carter, a former Georgia state senator, reflected on his grandfather’s unique legacy, jokingly calling him “the first millennial” for his support of policies that have become mainstream today.
“As governor of Georgia, half a century ago, he preached an end to racial discrimination and an end to mass incarceration,” Jason said, emphasizing the foresight that marked Carter’s political career. “His presidency wasn’t just ahead of its time—it was prophetic.”
The eulogy underscored the courage Carter displayed in championing these causes, often at a political cost. “He had the courage and strength to stick to his principles, even when they were politically unpopular,” Jason added.
Early Advocacy for Marijuana Decriminalization
Jimmy Carter’s presidency was marked by groundbreaking stances, including his push for marijuana decriminalization at a time when such views were politically contentious. In 1977, during his first year in office, Carter made history by stating, “Penalties against possession of a drug should not be more damaging to an individual than the use of the drug itself.” This sentiment challenged the prevailing “war on drugs” rhetoric and laid the groundwork for a national conversation on drug reform.
Carter advocated for ending federal criminal penalties for possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, leaving regulatory decisions to individual states. His administration also engaged with local efforts, such as Minnesota’s pioneering marijuana decriminalization program, even recognizing the initiative through the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office.
Peter Bourne, Carter’s head of the White House Office of Drug Abuse Policy, echoed this progressive stance, arguing that criminal penalties branding people for life were neither effective deterrents nor fair. These policies set Carter apart as a leader willing to challenge the status quo in pursuit of justice and fairness.
Championing Climate Change and Deregulation
In his eulogy, Jason Carter also celebrated his grandfather’s bold initiatives on climate change, a topic that has grown in urgency over the decades. “Fifty years ago, he was a climate warrior who pushed for a world where we conserved energy, limited emissions, and traded our reliance on fossil fuels for expanded renewable sources,” he said.
Carter’s presidency prioritized energy conservation during the oil crises of the 1970s, with measures like installing solar panels on the White House—a symbolic yet significant step in promoting renewable energy. His administration also balanced progressive reforms with deregulation efforts, transforming industries like aviation and beer brewing. The deregulation of airlines brought more affordable flights, while changes in brewing laws helped lay the groundwork for the modern craft beer movement.
A Leader Who Shaped Modern America
Jimmy Carter’s leadership extended far beyond his presidency. From his humanitarian work through the Carter Center to his groundbreaking policy initiatives, his influence continues to shape America. Jason Carter’s eulogy painted a portrait of a man who was unafraid to defy political norms, describing him as a leader who prioritized principles over popularity.
“He cut the deficit, wanted to decriminalize marijuana, deregulated so many industries that he gave us cheap flights and, as you heard, craft beer,” Jason quipped, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.
Jimmy Carter’s ability to connect progressive ideals with tangible outcomes made him a unique figure in American history. His presidency may have ended decades ago, but his vision—whether on climate change, drug reform, or economic fairness—remains a guiding light for future generations.
Honoring a Legacy of Principles
Jason Carter’s reflections on his grandfather’s life resonated deeply, capturing the essence of a leader whose ideas often outpaced his era. “He was a man who saw the world not as it was, but as it could be,” Jason said in closing.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy serves as a reminder of the power of principled leadership, even in the face of political resistance. As the nation said goodbye to its 39th president, it also celebrated the enduring impact of a man who was, in many ways, ahead of his time.
