Jimmy Carter: “We believe in separation of church and state, that there should be no unwarranted influence on the church or religion by…”

The aircraft carrying the 52 American hostages had cleared Iranian airspace on the first -- first leg of a journey home. And at every one of the 52 hostages was alive, was well and free.

Our great nation now teeters on the brink of a widening abyss. Without immediate action, we are at genuine risk of civil conflict and losing our precious democracy.

All of us owe them our gratitude and respect.

I fear for our democracy.