WASHINGTON — Nearly 44 years after his presidency ended in a notable defeat, Jimmy Carter returned to Washington on Tuesday for a state funeral, an event marked by the bipartisan respect and homegrown appreciation he seldom experienced during his political career.
The ceremonies included military honor guards, a processional down Pennsylvania Avenue, and a memorial held in the Capitol Rotunda, which continued to honor Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100. Observances will move towards his state funeral at the National Cathedral on Thursday, after which he will be laid to rest in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, beside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away earlier this year.
As dusk settled in Washington, Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune — all of whom were too young to vote when Carter was first elected — reflected on his faith, military background, and dedication to service that overshadowed his political achievements.
While acknowledging the difficulties Carter faced during his presidency, Harris expressed admiration for him as “that all-too-rare example of a gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty and grace.” She recalled how, during his 1976 presidential campaign, he took the time to connect with supporters in their homes, sharing both meals and conversations.
Thune highlighted Carter’s extensive legacy beyond the presidency, particularly his involvement with Habitat for Humanity, emphasizing that he was “first and foremost a faithful servant of his creator, and his fellow man.” Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, remembered him fondly as a hands-on leader, committed to getting the job done.
On Tuesday evening, Carter’s casket lay in state and will continue to be honored until it is moved to the National Cathedral, where President Joe Biden is scheduled to deliver a eulogy. Following his passing, Carter’s body had been resting at the Carter Presidential Center before being flown to Washington.
Despite never experiencing travel on the iconic Air Force One during his presidency, which only began service under President George H.W. Bush, Carter’s funeral rituals symbolize the typical traditions following a U.S. president’s death, such as the Air Force’s involvement and ceremonial transport methods.
Particularly poignant was the music provided by military bands, including hymns that reflected Carter’s strong Christian beliefs. As he was transported from the presidential center, “Amazing Grace” and “Blessed Assurance” were played, honoring his identity as a devoted Baptist.
His journey was symbolic of his past, echoing the moment in 1977 when he chose to walk from his secure vehicle during the inaugural parade, embracing his connection to the American people. A group of bipartisan congressional members, led by senators from Georgia, facilitated his arrival at the Capitol, including notable figures from both the executive and judicial branches of government.
As the casket arrived in the Rotunda, the U.S. Army Band Brass Quintet provided music, followed by a moment of silence punctuated by knocks at the door, signaling Carter’s arrival. The casket rested on the same catafalque that once held the remains of President Abraham Lincoln.
The U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club performed while congressional leaders laid wreaths, which elicited emotional responses from Carter’s family members who were present. Ironically, the grandeur of the ceremony contrasted with the relatively humble beginnings of a man who grew from a peanut farmer to the highest office in the land.
Carter’s presidency was marked by a mix of aspirations and struggles; he faced challenges navigating relationships within the political sphere. While he aimed to reform Washington, his demeanor didn’t always align with the expectations of political decorum prevalent in the capital.
At times, Carter’s reluctance towards traditional ceremonies became apparent, as seen in his desire to bypass certain ceremonial acknowledgments, believing they raised the presidency above its rightful place. Ultimately, he acquiesced to such traditions during his time in office, and many played out again following his passing.
Despite the respect he garnered, Carter’s legacy wasn’t devoid of critique, as highlighted by reactions from political figures, including former President Donald Trump. Although Trump acknowledged liking Carter personally, he reiterated his disapproval of certain policies, drawing attention to controversial topics from Carter’s administration, albeit during moments meant for reflection and honor.
Trump is expected to attend the funeral service in Washington, marking an occasion that transcends political divides in acknowledgment of a significant chapter in American history.
