In a rare moment of national solidarity, the state funeral of Jimmy Carter, America’s 39th president, brought together all five living presidents at Washington’s National Cathedral. The poignant ceremony marked a fleeting pause in the nation’s division, just days before Donald Trump’s anticipated second term begins.
Amid the somber gathering, Trump shook hands with former president Barack Obama, a gesture emblematic of the day’s unity. Alongside them, outgoing President Joe Biden and former leaders George W. Bush and Bill Clinton paid homage to Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100.
Biden, a longtime ally of Carter, delivered an emotional eulogy, praising his “character” and forward-thinking vision. Without naming names, Biden subtly criticized Trump, emphasizing the duty to reject hatred and confront abuses of power—a clear nod to recent political tensions.
Carter’s legacy, once viewed as politically weak, has evolved into one celebrated for its decency and impactful foreign policies. Tributes poured in, from family members to political adversaries turned friends. His grandson, Jason Carter, spoke of his love for Georgia’s natural beauty, while his vice president, Walter Mondale, honored him in a posthumous message read by Mondale’s son.
In a touching twist, even Gerald Ford, Carter’s Republican predecessor, contributed to the farewell with a heartfelt eulogy written before his death in 2006.
The ceremony served as a reminder of Carter’s enduring humanity, a leader who inspired love and respect across the aisle.
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