Jimmy Carter: “I feel renewed in my own commitment and strength when I know from history how great a nation we have.”

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.

I fear for our democracy.

I say to you, quite frankly, that the time for racial discrimination is over.

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.