Spotting politicians in Washington D.C. is perhaps synonymous with spotting celebrities in Hollywood; neither of which seem like too much effort given what each of these cities represent. But surprises are still to be had, as proved by a passenger video that showed a rather unlikely guest happily walking down the narrow airplane aisle and mingling with all those on-board, even in the economy class.
On a recent Delta flight bound from Washington D.C. to Atlanta, Georgia, as James Parker Sheffield buckled-up in his seat and waited for liftoff, he found himself being distracted by some commotion up ahead.
Given all the negative news story in the media about passengers being restrained, injured, or even dragged out of planes, there was a pretty good chance that James was about to witness another crazy news story in the making.
To his surprise however, the hubbub had to do with former president Jimmy Carter, who at the age of 92 still knows how to make a grand entrance.
President Carter who was clearly also traversing the same route as James and the other passengers aboard, had decided to walk down the entire plane aisle, shaking hands of every passenger that was accompanying him on this flight!
The video shows a really upbeat Carter, slowly making his way down the aisle and people extending their hands for a shake. A serious looking security agent followed close behind, to make sure things stayed safe and in control.
President Jimmy Carter who served the United States of America as its 39th President from 1977 to 1981, is one of the five former living presidents today. Among the many things that he accomplished as the president, the few that remain a highlight even today include the establishment of the Department of Education, and Department of Energy, along with pardoning all draft evaders of the Vietnam War.
James was utterly surprised and couldn't help recording the incident on his phone. He later told reporters that:
"It's hard to put into words what a nice reprieve from the current political theater this moment was. His enthusiasm was authentic and humble, in a way that made things feel less heavy for a moment."
Since the end of his presidency, Carter has spent considerable time using his influence to make a difference in human rights issues around the world; for which he received a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Those close to him claim that neither age, or his battle with cancer has lessened the former president's zeal to socialize and charm others.
While Deanna Congileo, a spokeswoman for Carter, didn't have any comments for this specific incident, she did make a statement saying that:
"For decades since he left office, he has shaken hands with his fellow travelers on planes. He enjoys it, and passengers are excited to get to interact with a former president."
Here is James' video showing the gracious former president!For those wondering what this did to the flight schedule, sources do claim that there was a slight delay in take off but no one seemed to care.
While social media and cable TV has certainly made it easier, the American people's fascination with their political leaders is not a new phenomena. Here, former President Carter proves that even after all these years when there are no campaigns to be won, it is never a bad idea to be genuinely interested in others and say hello!