Remembering former President Jimmy Carter and his impact on Chicago
Local tributes from Chicago emerged on Sunday in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who peacefully passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family on December 29, as confirmed by the Carter Center. Carter was a frequent visitor to Chicago, coming to the city during his 1976 presidential campaign, his presidency from 1977 to 1981, and in later years for initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity.
During the 1976 campaign, Carter formed a notable alliance with former Mayor Richard J. Daley. In a memorable moment that summer, Carter flew to Chicago for a fundraiser, welcomed by Daley at O'Hare International Airport and escorted to a massive crowd at the Blackstone Hotel. Though Daley passed away a month before Carter took office, he witnessed Carter's electoral victory.
Carter’s time as president included significant visits to Chicago, such as a meeting with Mayor Michael Bilandic in November 1978 and campaigning for U.S. Rep. Abner Mikva at Niles East High School. In October 1979, while campaigning for a second term, Carter addressed a town hall at Thornridge High School in Dolton, where he was surprised by Mayor Jane Byrne's shift in endorsement away from him to U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy for the 1980 Democratic primary.
In addition to his political engagements, Carter returned to Chicago in July 1986 for a Habitat for Humanity project, building homes in the West Garfield Park neighborhood with his wife, Rosalynn. Their commitment to service extended beyond their presidential years, as they temporarily resided in the area while completing the housing initiative.
Following the news of Carter's passing, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin offered condolences, emphasizing Carter's exemplary public service and the inspiration he provided to others. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker praised Carter's legacy of compassion, while Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also shared a heartfelt statement, reflecting on the profound impact Carter had on countless lives.