“Terrible President, Even Worse Ex-President”: Scott Jennings’ Harsh Take on Jimmy Carter Sparks Backlash
W.H. Deputy Dir. of Political Affairs Scott Jennings testifies to the Senate Judiciary Committee during a hearing titled “Preserving Prosecutorial Independence. August 2, 2007 in Washington (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Conservative political strategist Scott Jennings stirred controversy with sharp criticism of Jimmy Carter’s legacy during an appearance on CNN’s News Night with Abby Phillip Monday night. Jennings accused the late former president of having a “huge ego,” “meddling” in U.S. foreign policy, and “dabbling in antisemitism,” comments that quickly drew significant backlash online.
“Let me preface my take by wishing condolences to the Carter family on his death. He was obviously one of the most unique post-presidents we ever had because he lived so long and he did so much,” Jennings began.
“That having been said, he was a terrible president — that’s why he lost in a landslide. And if it’s possible, I think he was an even worse ex-president because of his meddling in foreign policy, because of his sidling up to dictators… because of his vehement views — anti-Israel views, and more than dabbling in antisemitism over the years.”
Jennings went further, accusing Carter of overstepping his role after leaving office. “I think he was a guy who had a huge ego and thought he was uniquely positioned to do all these things even after the American people had roundly and soundly rejected his leadership,” Jennings told the Washington Post.
On X (formerly Twitter), Jennings doubled down Tuesday, stating: “My thoughts on Jimmy Carter’s legacy last night on @cnn: terrible president, soundly rejected by the American people. Even worse ex-president, whose meddling in US foreign policy & virulent anti-Israel/anti-Semitic views must not be forgotten. Undermined US interests repeatedly.”
Social media erupted in response to Jennings’ remarks, with many criticizing the timing of his comments so soon after Carter’s passing on December 29. “Wait until his body is cold!” wrote Dawn Young-McDaniel. Another user, F. Joseph Merlino, accused CNN of using the controversy for ratings: “I think the reaction to Scott Jennings’ shameful statements about Carter before he is even buried is exactly what the shameful CNN execs want — outrage to attract eyeballs and ratings.”
Despite the criticism, tributes for Carter have poured in from across the political spectrum. President Joe Biden declared January 9, 2025, a National Day of Mourning in Carter’s honor. The former president will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda before a state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral.
Carter remembered for his work on humanitarian causes and diplomacy after leaving office, remains a polarizing figure in American political history, as evidenced by the reactions to Jennings’ remarks.
