Thu Jan 09 20:10:40 UTC 2025: **National League of Cities Mourns Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter**
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National League of Cities (NLC) today joined the nation in mourning the death of former President Jimmy Carter. While known for his post-presidency work in conflict resolution, housing, and public health, the NLC highlighted Carter’s significant engagement with local governments during his time in office.
Carter, according to the NLC, prioritized a strong national urban policy, actively reaching out to mayors and local leaders during his 1976 campaign. His administration, in collaboration with the NLC, developed what Carter himself called “the nation’s first urban policies,” aimed at investing in urban areas and improving the lives of all residents.
The NLC recalled Carter’s candid addresses to local leaders, notably a 1980 speech where he frankly addressed the challenges of inflation and its impact on municipalities. He emphasized the need for realistic solutions and acknowledged the difficult choices facing city officials, stating, “decent health care, home-ownership, business prosperity…can and will slip away if inflation continues.” He emphasized truth-telling over political expediency.
The NLC praised Carter’s belief in the power and responsibility of local government and his commitment to conflict resolution and aiding vulnerable populations. They contrasted his approach with the current political climate, suggesting his legacy serves as a valuable lesson for local leaders and the nation as a whole. The NLC concluded by promoting its 2025 Congressional City Conference, urging local leaders to participate and engage with the incoming administration.
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