Former First Lady Michelle Obama was notably absent from the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, which took place on Thursday. While all other living former presidents and their partners were present at the ceremony, Michelle’s absence stood out. Among those attending included Barack Obama, who sat prominently in the front pew at Washington National Cathedral, situated directly behind President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris along with their spouses.
Michelle Obama’s office confirmed her absence but did not provide further details regarding her location or the reasons for not attending. In a statement issued by her spokesperson, Crystal Carson, it was noted, “Former First Lady Michelle Obama is not in attendance at President Carter’s National Funeral Service. Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former President.”
Prior to the funeral, it was reported that Michelle Obama was in Hawaii and had a scheduling conflict, as she was on what was referred to as an “extended vacation.” State funerals for past presidents are significant events, drawing together esteemed leaders from both the past and present, in addition to dignitaries from various branches of the U.S. government and representatives from around the globe.
During the funeral, Barack Obama, a Democrat, was seen interacting amicably with former Republican President Donald Trump. This cordiality was also witnessed between other former presidents, including Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Trump was seen shaking hands with his former vice president, Mike Pence, despite their complicated relationship following Pence’s refusal to support Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.
The assembly of dignitaries is set to reunite in Washington on January 20 for Trump’s second inauguration ceremony. As of now, Michelle Obama’s spokesperson has yet to disclose whether she plans to attend the upcoming inauguration.