WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement today on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:

“President Carter was a profoundly decent and ethical man who served our country well during a difficult period.

“He was the most successful former president in my lifetime. Through the Carter Center, he made incredible strides toward the eradication of tropical disease and, building on his legacy as president – particularly the Camp David Accords – promoted conflict resolution and peace-building efforts.

“A longtime Baptist deacon and Sunday school teacher, he never shied away from talking about his commitment to faith or its impact on his politics. I long admired him for his honesty and strong moral compass.

“His death is a loss for our country and world, just as the loss of Rosalynn, the love of his life, was as well. Annie and I extend my deepest sympathies to his children, Jack, James III, Donnel, and Amy; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and the other members of the Carter family during this difficult time.”