Rosalynn Carter

I'm about 3/4 through Rosalynn Carter's autobiography. She presents a very different view of Jimmy Carter than we normally think of. It's clear that he was a very strong willed man who always did what he thought was right (even when she thought differently). He also comes across as someone who was very involved in his community before getting involved in politics. It is interesting that his stature has grown considerably since he was the President. His work for various humanitarian and humans rights organization, Habitat for Humanity and his negotiation in various hot spots has given him far more credibility than when he was in the White House.

Perhaps it is interesting to note some differences between Canadian and American politics. Does anyone know who the wife of Prime Minister Paul Martin is? Would you know her if you passed her on the street? American State Governors have their Governors Mansions, but does anyone know if the Premier of Ontario has an official residence? When Prime Minister Chretien's son was arrested for rape, did it have any affect on him politically? Perhaps American politics is more politicalized? Canadian politics is still politics, but personal details do tend to get left out (except if you're a Christian, in which case the press makes fun of you and suggests you are a threat... but I digress).