Today, former President Jimmy Carter turns 100. He came into the world in Plains, Georgia, and he celebrates his landmark birthday in Plains, where he has maintained his residence for the past century. He has led an extraordinary life, serving seven years as a Naval officer, expanding his family’s peanut-growing business, four years in the Georgia State Senate, four years as Governor of Georgia, and the 39th President of the United States (1977-1981).

As President, he pardoned all Vietnam draft evaders on his second day in office. He successfully negotiated the Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal Treaties, and the second round of Strategic Arms Limitation Talks. He established the Departments of Energy and Education. As a symbol of his intent to pursue sustainable energy policy, he had solar panels installed on the White House roof (removed by Big Oil booster Ronald Reagan). Mr. Carter infused foreign policy with concern for human rights.

Nonetheless, his term was marred by stagflation, political infighting, escalation of foreign tension, and international wars.

After his presidency, Jimmy Carter really hit his stride, forming the Carter Center and becoming a key figure in Habitat For Humanity. He won the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.

Mr. Carter has traveled the world, monitoring elections and helping to build houses for people in need. On many Sundays he could be found at the Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, teaching Sunday School. He has been in hospice care now for 19 months. According to his grandson, Jason, “He was excited to turn 100, but he’s more excited to cast his vote for Kamala Harris.”

Tonight, while Plains, Georgia, is celebrating the centenary of its most famous native son, another public servant of humble rural beginnings, Governor Tim Walz, will take the debate stage as the current Vice Presidential nominee.

Like Carter, Walz served honorably in the military and has a strong moral compass. He will be the first candidate on a Democratic White House ticket who didn’t attend law school since President Jimmy Carter ran for reelection in 1980. Again, from Carter grandson Jason: “It’s about time…. Everyone has had their life changed by a great teacher or a  great coach. Let’s go, @GovTimWalz!”

So, join us tonight:

PDA Virtual Presidential Debate Watch Party

Tuesday, October 1 (TONIGHT)
8:30pm ET/7:30pm CT/6:30pm MT/5:30pm PT+AZ
Join PDA members across the country as we watch what’s sure to be a brilliant performance by Governor Walz, the perfect opportunity to socialize AND organize!

Register Here.and the machine will send you your secure link.

We hope you’ll be texting with us and then crowing about it on the debate watch call.

In solidarity,

Debra Schrishuhn for the PDA National Team