Wed Jan 08 23:50:00 UTC 2025: **Former President Jimmy Carter Lies in State; Trump Pays Respects Amidst Contrasting Legacies**

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Former President Jimmy Carter lay in state at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, drawing a diverse stream of mourners, including President-elect Donald Trump, whose past criticisms of Carter stood in stark contrast to the somber respect paid during the event. Trump, along with his wife Melania, visited the Capitol Rotunda to view Carter’s flag-draped casket before a state funeral scheduled for Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral. Despite past public disagreements, Trump’s visit was described as somber and respectful.

Thousands of people waited in line to pay their respects to the 39th president, who died at age 100 on December 29th. Many recalled personal anecdotes of meeting Carter during his 1976 campaign or shared their admiration for his post-presidency humanitarian work with Habitat for Humanity and his efforts to promote democracy and fight disease globally. Several mourners highlighted the sharp contrast between Carter’s legacy of integrity and honesty and that of Trump.

Members of Congress, including former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, and the daughters of President Lyndon B. Johnson were also among those who paid tribute. Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune earlier eulogized Carter, praising his faith, peacemaking efforts, and dedication to serving others. President Biden is expected to deliver the eulogy at Thursday’s state funeral, which will be followed by a private burial in Plains, Georgia, alongside his wife, Rosalynn Carter. Other living former presidents are also expected to attend.

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