Jimmy Carter Remembered As Faithful Public Servant In Tributes From Both Sides of The Aisle
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NEW YORK (AP) — A gunman killed UnitedHealthcare’s CEO on Wednesday in a “brazen, targeted attack” outside a Manhattan hotel where the health insurer was holding its investor conference, police said, setting off a massive search for the fleeing assailant hours before the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting nearby. Brian Thompson, 50, was shot around 6:45 a.m. as he walked alone to the New York Hilton Midtown from a nearby hotel, police said. The shooter appeared to be “lying in wait for several minutes” before approaching Thompson from behind and opening fire , New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Police had not yet established a motive. “Many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target,” Tisch said, adding that the shooting "does not appear to be a random act of violence.” Surveillance video reviewed by investigators shows someone emerging from behind a parked car, pointing a gun at Thompson’s back, then firing multiple times from several feet away. The gunman continues firing, interrupted by a brief gun jam, as Thompson stumbles forward and falls to the sidewalk. He then walks past Thompson and out of the frame. “From watching the video, it does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. Thompson was shot at least once in the back and once in the calf, Tisch said. The shooter, who wore a jacket, face mask and large backpack, fled through Midtown on foot before pedaling an electric bike into Central Park a few blocks away, police said. The assailant remained at large Wednesday afternoon, sparking a search that included police drones, helicopters and dogs. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him,” the insurer’s Minnetonka, Minnesota-based parent company, UnitedHealth Group Inc., said in a statement. "We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time.” Police issued a poster showing a surveillance image of the man pointing what appeared to be a gun and another image that appeared to show the same person on a bicycle. Minutes before the shooting, he stopped at a nearby Starbucks, according to additional surveillance photos released by police on Wednesday afternoon. They offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, told NBC News that he told her “there were some people that had been threatening him.” She didn’t have details but suggested the threats may have involved issues with insurance coverage. Eric Werner, the police chief in the Minneapolis suburb where Thompson lived, said his department had not received any reports of threats against the executive. The killing shook a part of New York City that's normally quiet at that hour, happening about four blocks from where tens of thousands of people were set to gather for Wednesday night’s tree lighting. Police promised extra security for the event. The hotel is also a short walk from other tourist sites, including the Museum of Modern Art and Radio City Music Hall, and is often dense with office workers and visitors on weekday mornings. Many security cameras are nearby. “We’re encouraging New Yorkers to go about their daily lives and their daily business but to be alert,” NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey said. Investigators recovered several 9 mm shell casings from outside the hotel and a cellphone from the alleyway through which the shooter fled. They were also searching Thompson's hotel room, interviewing his UnitedHealthcare colleagues and reviewing his social media, Kenny said. Police initially said the shooter rode into Central Park on a bicycle from the city’s bike-share program, CitiBike. But a spokesperson for the program’s operator, Lyft, said police officials informed the company Wednesday afternoon that the bike was not from the CitiBike fleet. Health care giant UnitedHealth Group was holding its annual meeting with investors to update Wall Street on the company's direction and expectations for the coming year. The company ended the conference early in the wake of Thompson's death. “I’m afraid that we — some of you may know we’re dealing with a very serious medical situation with one of our team members,” a company official told attendees, according to a transcript. “And as a result, I’m afraid we’re going to have to bring to a close the event today. ... I’m sure you’ll understand.” Thompson, a father of two sons, had been with the company since 2004 and served as CEO for more than three years. UnitedHealthcare is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans in the U.S. and manages health insurance coverage for employers and state-and federally funded Medicaid programs. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz posted on the social platform X that the state is “sending our prayers to Brian’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team.” “This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota,” the Democrat wrote. Associated Press writers Tom Murphy in Indianapolis, Steve Karnowski in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Anthony Izaguirre in Albany, New York, contributed to this story.Former President Jimmy Carter died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100. Sitting, future and former presidents have weighed in on the extraordinary life of the former president who served in office from 1977-1981. Following his single term in the White House, Carter established the Carter Center, became involved in observing elections in developing countries, volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and taught Sunday day school at his local church in Georgia. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, 22 years after leaving office, "for his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights and to promote economic and social development." Here's what the presidents have had to say following Carter's death. Former presidents react to Jimmy Carter's death George W. Bush In a statement, Bush and his wife, Laura Bush, sent their condolences and prayers to the Carter family. “James Earl Carter, Jr., was a man of deeply held convictions. He was loyal to his family, his community, and his country. President Carter dignified the office. And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn’t end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations. Joe Biden In a joint statement, President Joe Biden and his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, called Carter an "extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian" and a "dear friend." Biden also ordered an official state funeral in Washington, D.C. for Carter. "And to all of the young people in this nation and for anyone in search of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning – the good life – study Jimmy Carter, a man of principle, faith, and humility. He showed that we are a great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong." Donald Trump In a statement posted to Truth Social, former and President-elect Donald Trump said Carter was part of an "exclusive club" of members who understood the responsibility of the presidency and leading the nation. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers." Barack Obama Former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, released a joint statement on Carter's death, noting his accomplishments in and out of office and his devotion to Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where Carter taught Sunday school. "Whenever I had a chance to spend time with President Carter, it was clear that he didn’t just profess these values. He embodied them. And in doing so, he taught all of us what it means to live a life of grace, dignity, justice, and service. In his Nobel acceptance speech, President Carter said, “God gives us the capacity for choice. We can choose to alleviate suffering. We can choose to work together for peace.” He made that choice again and again over the course of his 100 years, and the world is better for it. Maranatha Baptist Church will be a little quieter on Sundays, but President Carter will never be far away – buried alongside Rosalynn next to a willow tree down the road, his memory calling all of us to heed our better angels. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from this remarkable man."MIKEL ARTETA did not hold back in his praise for Myles Lewis-Skelly after his first Champions League start as Arsenal's latest graduate more than repaid the faith. Lewis-Skelly showed the confidence and understanding of a player with more than 100 appearances under his belt as the Gunners saw off Monaco 3-0 . Brave on the ball and playing a key role in Arsenal 's first goal - this was a night he can remember fondly. While Arteta continues to worry about just how many injuries are piling up in North London - at least he now has someone he can trust at left-back. With Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori sidelined and Jurrien Timber not ready to start, the 18-year-old was given the nod ahead of Kieran Tierney. Arteta hailed the youngster after his Champions League debut versus Monaco, saying: "A really proud moment. He’s one of our own. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL "It’s just a joy to watch it him, a privilege to be able to give the chance to somebody. He took the chance." Gunners fans have had glimpses in the past, especially when he was involved in a spat with Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland before he had even turned 18. But with his progress this season having been hindered by an infected toe, supporters have had to wait a while longer for a proper display. There was plenty to be excited about here, with even Bukayo Saka raving about his display, saying: "His future is very bright. Most read in Champions League FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS "He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I'm so proud of him. "I just said to him, like I said to him before the game - this is his level. "He needs to have no doubts and play with confidence. “What he’s doing, we see it in training. I was pleased with him, he was a big part of the first goal.” Despite being the youngest player to start in the Champions League for Arsenal since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011, Lewis-Skelly was not lacking in confidence. Whether that was on the ball, taking possession in tight spaces and always looking to play forwards, or telling other far more senior team-mates where they should be. Lewis-Skelly completed a very impressive 45 of 47 attempted passes, always looking to keep the tempo up and with team-mates not afraid to hand him the ball. Arteta asks his full-backs to move inside when the Gunners are in possession and, having come through the ranks as a midfielder, the teen looks more than comfortable doing so. He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I'm so proud of him. It was from this position he helped craft the opener. Having shifted inside alongside Declan Rice , Lewis-Skelly collected a pass from skipper Martin Odegaard. Under pressure from Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche, the No49 took a touch backwards to draw the Frenchman in before darting forwards, leaving him stranded. The England Under-19 settled himself and quickly set Gabriel Jesus in behind with a fine pass, from where the Brazilian squared to setup Saka. READ MORE SUN STORIES As the Gunners had to dig in after the break, Arteta sent on the more experienced Timber to shore things up. But Lewis-Skelly still departed to a standing ovation - surely not the last he will receive from Arsenal supporters. BUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League. Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players' performances. DAVID RAYA – 7/10 Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do. Commanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front. THOMAS PARTEY – 6 A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray. Wasn't caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco's left side. WILLIAM SALIBA – 7 Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten. JAKUB KIWIOR – 7 A capable deputy in Gabriel's absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him. MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9 Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco. A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco's press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal's opener. Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes. DECLAN RICE – 7 Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks. Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn't his job this evening with Merino alongside him. MIKEL MERINO – 4 I wasn't moved. Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard - Merino - Rice midfield they were excited about. Looked heavy and slow, and got booked. MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5 Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal. Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4 A threat down the left side in the first half, he should've had an assist were it not for Arsenal's number nine. While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough. BUKAYO SAKA – 8 In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus. Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games - clinical. GABRIEL JESUS – 5 Could've had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie. What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal. SUBS: LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5 Much the same story as the man whom he replaced. JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6 A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it. JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6 Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal's level didn't drop much. KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8 Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka's second. Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third. ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5 Another good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future. Some good touches to get the home fans excited.
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China advances foreign trade with higher-quality products exported and more imports from LDCsMinnesotans with long-held connections to Jimmy Carter reflected Sunday on the legacy of the president, who died at the age of 100. Carter, the longest-lived American president, maintained a unique tie to the state after selecting Minnesota Sen. Walter ‘’Fritz’' Mondale as his running mate in 1976. The pair, who ran on the so-called ‘’Grits and Fritz’' ticket, was credited with elevating the vice president’s office into a more powerful position. Carter died Sunday in his hometown of Plains, Ga., more than a year after entering hospice care. He lived there with his wife, Rosalynn, who died at the age of 96 in November 2023. Salutes to the former president peppered social media Sunday. Gov. Tim Walz, who unsuccessfully ran for vice president this year on the Democratic ticket with Kamala Harris, posted on X on Sunday night. “President Carter defined what it means to be a servant leader,” Walz wrote. “He fought for our democracy, our climate, humanity, and civil rights around the world. We can find peace today knowing that he is reunited with the love his life, Rosalynn.” Sen. Amy Klobuchar said in a statement that Carter “earned a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans” when he added Mondale to his presidential ticket. The Democrat also praised Carter’s record. “Even during a period of economic uncertainty, he made key advancements in protecting the environment, expanding access to health care, bolstering Social Security, and strengthening America’s leadership on the world stage,” Klobuchar wrote. Skyrocketing inflation and oil prices marked Carter’s first and only term. An economic downturn, combined with the Iran hostage crisis, sunk his chances at re-election and overshadowed his foreign policy accomplishments, including brokering a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel and negotiating the return of the Panama Canal to Panama. But he inspired great admiration in the decades after his presidency, working with his wife Rosalynn to create the Carter Center, a nonprofit human rights organization, in 1982. His dedication to democracy and economic development earned him a Noble Peace Prize in 2002. Sen. Tina Smith shared a photo posing with the former president on X, writing she was “blessed to meet him several times.” The pictured moment, she added, captured her favorite encounter: Carter locked into an “energetic conversation” with her husband “about the virtues of fly fishing.” “Jimmy Carter personified moral leadership for our country & the world,” she wrote in the post. Rep. Tom Emmer, the Republican House majority whip, said in a post on X that he is grateful for Carter’s “decades of service — from his time in the military to public office and beyond — and pray for peace and comfort for the Carter family during this difficult time.” U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber, a Republican who represents northeastern Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District, also memorialized Carter on X. “There is no denying that he was a compassionate man who dedicated his life to serving others,” he wrote. Minnesota ties Carter cemented his legacy as a philanthropist in the decades after leaving office. He and his wife Rosalynn were perhaps the country’s most public volunteers for Habitat for Humanity. They donned hardhats and tool belts well into their older years, drawing media attention to the nonprofit through their annual Carter Work Project, an all-hands-on-deck effort to construct homes in the U.S. and abroad. The project twice came to the Twin Cities. In September, volunteers constructed 30 homes on St. Paul’s East Side — the first phase of an ongoing affordable housing development . Carter, just days shy of 100 this fall, didn’t appear at the festivities. But in 2010, an 86-year-old Carter and his former running mate, Minnesotan Walter Mondale, pitched into a homebuilding project in North Minneapolis. “The initiative in this neighborhood will be an inspiration to people all over the nation,” Carter said at the time. The Associated Press contributed to this report.