Fri Jan 10 11:25:17 UTC 2025: **Bipartisan Gathering Mourns Former President Jimmy Carter**

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Current and former U.S. Presidents from both sides of the aisle set aside political differences to pay their respects at the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral on January 9, 2025. Carter, who passed away on December 29th at the age of 100, was remembered for his decades of public service, his unwavering humility, and his impactful post-presidency humanitarian work.

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were joined by former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and their spouses. Incoming President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump also attended the service. The event drew a wide range of political figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris, former Vice President Mike Pence, and other former administration officials. While the atmosphere was largely somber, the occasion also featured moments of quiet interaction and camaraderie between political rivals.

President Biden’s eulogy lauded Carter’s integrity and his transformative influence as a private citizen. He highlighted Carter’s dedication to making the most of his time, stating that it was “the very definition of a good life.”

Despite their strained relationship following the January 6th, 2021 Capitol riots, former Vice President Mike Pence and Mr. Trump exchanged a polite handshake. Their shared presence underscored the solemnity of the occasion. In contrast, Vice President Harris maintained a distance from Mr. Trump, though her husband, Doug Emhoff, did interact with the former president.

International dignitaries, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, also attended the funeral.

A poignant moment came when Steve Ford, son of former President Gerald Ford, delivered a eulogy written by his late father. The eulogy recalled the deep friendship between Presidents Carter and Ford, highlighting their agreement to eulogize each other, a promise Carter fulfilled at Ford’s funeral in 2006. The eulogy described their relationship as shifting from a brief rivalry to a lasting friendship. The funeral served as a powerful testament to Carter’s legacy and the capacity for unity even amidst deep political divides.

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