In 1982, being a gas pumper at a full service Exxon station in Plantation, FL- I read a book written by Jimmy Carter. A part of the book had a huge impact on my life (I was 17 years old).
Jimmy Carter had graduated the Naval Academy something like 8th in his class, astonishing achievement. I assume most of the classes were rock hard STEM classes. When then Ensign Carter reported to his first duty station, he reported to a Admiral to learn his assignment. Jimmy was all smiles, knowing how well he scored/ ranked at the Naval Academy.
During the interview with the Admiral, Ensign Carter was asked if he "always did his very best" in his academics at the Naval Academy. Ensign Carter, being a totally honest person, had to tell the Admiral "no". He started that meeting thinking he was a "top dog". He left that meeting humbled and depressed.
Anytime I go to take a shortcut in something I am doing, I recall the line from the Admiral to Ensign Carter "I don't care where you ranked- did you always do your best".
President Carter was likely a very honest person, hoping for the best for all, especially people in need. I am not sure how well politicians with steadfast, rock solid values and honesty perform as an elected official- history might suggest not so well. President Carter likely had wonderful ideals and a very deep desire to uplift people. The issue is- government is not able to uplift people, except by removing barriers and staying out of people's lives. It is often counterproductive for government to be the solution, in trying to better people's lives. People will fix it themselves as long as they don't have "barriers to entry".