Jimmy Carter: “I am convinced that action is needed now, and that these steps will restore the financial integrity of the Social…”

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.

There's only one chance and one life to count for something. And my faith tells me, or my faith demands, that I use whatever I have whenever I can, to make a difference in people's lives.

I fear for our democracy.

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.