Jimmy Carter: “My only intention was to make a contribution to this country and to you.”

I fear for our democracy.

All of us owe them our gratitude and respect.

Without immediate action, we are at genuine risk of civil conflict and losing our precious democracy.

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.