SACRAMENTO – California lawmakers expressed their condolences on Sunday after former US President Jimmy Carter died at the age of 100. He was remembered for his role in the post-Watergate world and for leaving behind one of the most influential post-presidential legacies in history.

“Today our nation and our world lost a leader who embodied dignity and decency, grace and kindness,” said House Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi. “Paul and I join in mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter and giving thanks for his life, which was sacred in its devotion to public service and peace.”

Vice President Kamala Harris said she will always remember his “kindness, wisdom and deep grace.”

“His life and legacy continue to inspire me – and will continue to inspire future generations. “Our world is a better place because of President Carter,” she said in a statement.

Carter, the 39th President of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize winner, ended his presidency under difficult circumstances after losing his re-election in 1980, but left a memorable legacy after his presidency, including public service and leadership in the energy transition through his Establishment of the Department of Energy.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn said Carter made his mark on the region through his work building low-income housing with Habitat for Humanity when Hanh was on the City Council. She worked with Carter on a project to build 16 homes for low-income families in San Pedro.

Gov. Gavin Newsom called the late president “a man of rare character.”

“He saw the common humanity in all of us, building bridges between people of different faiths and factions abroad while working to meet the needs of people at home. Despite tremendous challenges and difficult times, his radiant energy and spirit never faltered.”

Carter, remembered as a “champion of clean energy, a staunch supporter of democracy and a fundamentally decent human being,” was also mourned by Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), who issued a statement Sunday.

“His lifelong commitment to service has guided us through turbulent moments,” he said, “and he leaves behind a shining example of how to treat each other better.”

Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) said Carter was “unceasing in his service, unwavering in his dignity and revered for his commitment to our shared humanity.”

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass mourned Carter and said she was “lucky” to sit and talk with the former president years ago.

“I will cherish the conversation we were able to have and am grateful for his wisdom and guidance,” she said. “I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Carter family and loved ones on this difficult day.”

President Biden was scheduled to comment on the late president’s death on CNN Sunday evening.