WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump made an appearance at the Capitol Rotunda on Wednesday to honor Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, who is lying in state prior to his funeral on Thursday in the nation’s capital.
Throughout the 2024 campaign, Trump had mixed opinions about Carter, often mocking him, especially regarding the decision to relinquish control of the Panama Canal during his presidency over 40 years ago. Nevertheless, as he paid his respects, Trump maintained a solemn demeanor alongside his wife, Melania, as they approached Carter’s casket, adorned with the American flag and positioned on the Lincoln catafalque under the watch of military honors.
During his campaign, Trump frequently targeted both President Joe Biden and Carter, amplifying negative stereotypes associated with the former Georgia governor. He was known to say, “Jimmy Carter is happy because he had a brilliant presidency compared to Biden,” referencing Carter’s legacy even during sensitive moments such as former First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s last days in 2023 and on the occasion of Carter’s 100th birthday just days ago. On the day Carter’s remains were brought to Washington, Trump remarked on his personal feelings towards Carter, stating, “I liked him as a man. I disagreed with his policies. He thought giving away the Panama Canal was a good thing.”
A line of mourners included members of Congress, Capitol Hill aides, and former Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Notable attendees such as Lynda Robb and Luci Baines Johnson, daughters of President Lyndon Johnson, also paid their respects, with Luci blowing a kiss to the casket as she departed.
Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, holds the record as the longest-living U.S. president. Prior to venturing into politics, he served as a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, submarine officer, and peanut farmer. He secured the presidency in 1976 during a period marked by disillusionment following the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, ultimately serving four tumultuous years before losing to Ronald Reagan. His presidency has since been reevaluated by historians, resulting in a more favorable view than he received from voters in 1980, and the arrangements of a state funeral serve as a significant recognition of his complex legacy in contrast to his often strained relationship with Washington during his term.
Lyn Leverett, who braved frigid temperatures to pay tribute, remarked, “President Carter was the governor of Georgia when I was born. He’s been a part of my entire life, and I want to respect a decent person.”
Visitors shared fond memories related to Carter’s unexpected rise in the political realm during his 1976 campaign. Susan Prolman of Nashua, New Hampshire, recalled how Carter stayed at her home during his campaign for the New Hampshire primary, fondly remembering the signed poster she created for him.
Others reflected on personal ties to Carter, such as Margaret Fitzpatrick, who spoke of a family friend that had known Carter from their time at the Naval Academy. However, she and others also emphasized the significant differences they perceive between Carter’s presidency and that of Trump. “The contrast is amazing,” Fitzpatrick expressed, highlighting the dignified nature of Carter’s legacy compared to ongoing political tensions surrounding Trump’s inauguration preparations.
Another Maryland-resident, Kim James, who grew up during Carter’s presidency, viewed him as more than just a political leader. She remembered him as a former president who dedicated his life to humanitarian efforts and democratic advocacy around the globe. “He cared about other people,” she said, calling for today’s political leaders to embody that spirit of selflessness and compassion.
The ceremonies this week have also highlighted Carter’s religious faith and extensive humanitarian efforts beyond his political tenure. Eulogies were delivered by Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune when Carter’s remains first arrived at the Capitol.
Carter will remain in the Capitol until Thursday morning, when he will be transported to the Washington National Cathedral for a state funeral set to begin at 10 a.m. Eastern. President Biden, a long-time ally of Carter, is expected to deliver a eulogy, and other former presidents, including Trump, will also be in attendance.
Following the funeral, Carter’s body, accompanied by family, will return to Georgia on a Boeing 747 that serves as Air Force One for the sitting president. An invitation-only service will take place at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where Carter taught Sunday School for many years after his presidency. He will be interred next to his wife in a burial plot near their home that they built prior to his initial state Senate campaign in 1962, where they resided aside from their brief time in the Governor’s Mansion and the White House.
