Former President Jimmy Carter was honored with a state funeral on Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral, attended by all five living current and former U.S. presidents. However, former First Lady Michelle Obama was notably absent, leading to speculation about her absence from the ceremony.
According to journalist Jeff Zeleny on CNN, Michelle Obama had scheduling conflicts that prevented her from attending the funeral, as she is currently in Hawaii. Consequently, former President Barack Obama entered the Cathedral alone and was seated alongside fellow former presidents, while President-elect Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump were also present.
Carter passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024, after spending nearly two years under hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia. His funeral proceedings began with a transport from the Carter Center in Atlanta followed by a dignified procession to the U.S. Capitol, where Carter lay in repose before the funeral service.
The gathering at the funeral was marked by moments of camaraderie, including a brief conversation between Trump and Obama. Attending the ceremony alongside the former presidents were former First Ladies, including Hillary Clinton and Laura Bush, though the absence of Michelle Obama was felt by many.
President Joe Biden designated January 9 as a national day of mourning for Carter, who is remembered not only as the longest-lived president in U.S. history but also for his significant contributions to the nation.
This event serves as a reminder of the deep respect that permeates the political landscape during moments of loss, showcasing how even rivals come together to honor the legacy of a leader.