GOP governor sends condolences to Rosalynn Carter — who died last year

Texas' far-right governor mistakenly offered his condolences to Rosalynn Carter, the late wife of former President Jimmy Carter, shortly after news broke of his death.

Jimmy Carter died Sunday at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he was surrounded by family. He faced several health challenges in recent years, including melanoma that metastasized to his liver and brain.

Gov. Greg Abbott's office said in a statement Sunday shortly after news of Jimmy Carter's death that America owes him a debt of gratitude.

"Cecilia and I mourn the loss of former President Jimmy Carter alongside millions of Americans across the country. Our nation remains the greatest beacon of freedom and opportunity in the world because of our fearless chief executives who are our guiding force through the best and worst of times. For that, we owe President Carter our enduring gratitude for his service as the 39th President of the United States."

Abbott also praised Carter for having led a life "marked by selfless service to the American people" and said he "leaves behind a great legacy as a husband, father, naval officer, governor, and Nobel prize winner, and he will be greatly missed by many."

But it was his next sentence that raised eyebrows.

ALSO READ: Merrick Garland's last task and the explosive evidence that could save America

"Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to First Lady Rosalynn Carter and the entire Carter family," Abbott said, according to WFAA.

Rosalynn Carter died in November 2023 at age 96.

Abbott later updated that statement on X to remove the reference to the first lady: "Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to the entire Carter family."

The Democratic Party in Collin County, Texas, seized on Abbott's flub.

"Texas Governor Greg Abbott mistakenly offers condolences to the late Rosalyn Carter on the death of her husband, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Rosalyn Carter passed away on November 19, 2023. Did anyone in the Governor’s Office Proof the Condolence note?" asked the party on X.