Carter needs to be an elder statesman

I think it is time for former President Jimmy Carter to start playing the role of an elder statesman. During the administration of former President George W. Bush, he broke precedent by criticizing the foreign policy of a sitting president.

He recently stirred up additional controversy in the health care debate by accusing Congressman Joe Wilson of racism and implying that criticism of President Obama was based to a great extent on race. Although Congressman Wilson's outburst was ill-advised and inappropriate, there is absolutely no history of racism in his past that could possibly justify such an accusation.

Jimmy Carter's presidency has been viewed, by both Democrats and Republicans, as less than successful. However, as president, he did set his bar high, as far as his own personal ethics and morality. He always made an effort do what was best for the country, rather than what was politically expedient, possibly defeating his own chances of reelection.

Personally, I have always admired Jimmy Carter. It pains me to see him try to generate even greater divisions in our country by playing the race card and seeing racism where it doesn't exist. He needs to keep his bar set high, keep his opinions to himself and stay far away from partisan politics.

Barry Goldwater was a conservative Republican senator who was greatly admired by both Democrats and Republicans at the end of his career. He adapted, very well, to the role of an elder statesman. I hope Jimmy Carter eventually learns to adapt himself to that role, as well.

Dan Blackburn

Lombard