As a Democratic past president, Jimmy Carter was allowed to speak at Democratic Conventions until 2008. That year, Carter prepared a speech to be delivered in Denver but at the last minute, for whatever reason (perhaps TV timing), the powers that be decided that Jimmy’s speech wasn’t what they needed and he was only allowed to be introduced at the Convention. Rosalynn & him got a nice ovation, but he was not allowed to speak. Jimmy Carter smiled, but I’m told by a few people who know, that he was deeply hurt and by his treatment at the Convention. Carter did not attend the conventions in 2012 and 2016.
The truth is that throughout his long post-presidency Carter has been considered a political liability by most of the party “establishment.” Oh sure, he is renowned for his good works but in purely political terms Carter was defined, according to many, by his failures — Iranian hostages, gas lines, inflation, the “killer rabbit”, etc. And of course Reagan beat Carter in a landslide in 1980. Also, some Kennedy loyalists never forgave Jimmy for besting Ted in the 1980 primaries. He had told Kennedy that he would “whip his ass.” I love both Carter and Kennedy.
That really is ancient history. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have triumphed and endured. I hope that there is room in the convention schedule to hear from this great and good man. Persident Carter will not beg for an invitation. I believe his public position is that he doesn’t want to be “partisan” anymore. However, if he is invited I believe he would accept a chance to address fellow Democrats in support of our 2020 nominee. Yes, the Carters are great humanitarians, but both are also very strong Democrats.