An ‘extraordinary man’: Former President Carter lies in state at Capitol

Former President Jimmy Carter’s body was brought to the District of Columbia on Tuesday afternoon and will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol before a state funeral set for Thursday across town at the Washington National Cathedral. Carter passed away on Sunday, Dec. 29, at the age of 100, just over a year after the death of his wife, Rosalynn Carter.

The six days of funeral ceremonies began on Saturday morning in Carter’s hometown of Plains, Georgia. His ceremonial arrival at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda was a solemn moment, with a hearse carrying his casket greeted by the U.S. Air Force Band playing “Abide with Me.” Carter, a Naval Academy alumnus and former submarine officer, was then transferred to a horse-drawn caisson for a procession up Pennsylvania Avenue to the U.S. Capitol.

Vice President Harris delivered a heartfelt eulogy at the lying-in-state ceremony, joined by second gentleman Doug Emhoff in presenting a memorial wreath on behalf of the executive branch. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune also paid tribute to Carter’s legacy in their remarks at the U.S. Capitol ceremony.

Johnson praised Carter as an “extraordinary man” who dedicated his life to serving his country and humanity. He highlighted Carter’s military service, charitable work with Habitat for Humanity and The Carter Center, and his profound faith. The former president’s enduring legacy was honored by all present in the hallowed halls of the U.S. Capitol.

The decision to have Carter lie in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda was made in recognition of his long and distinguished service to the nation. Only 12 presidents have received this honor, with the last being George H.W. Bush in December 2018. Members of the public can pay their respects to Carter from early Wednesday through early Thursday before his official state funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral.

Carter’s funeral services will continue with private ceremonies in his hometown before he is laid to rest beside his beloved wife. The nation mourns the loss of a president who left an indelible mark on history through his dedication to public service and humanitarian efforts.

Breanne Deppisch, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, covers the 2024 election and other national news.