Trump, Pence shake hands at Carter funeral in first public meeting since leaving office
President-elect Donald Trump and his former Vice President Mike Pence shared a handshake at former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral, marking their first public interaction in four years. The event took place at Washington, D.C.’s National Cathedral, where Pence stood up to greet Trump as he arrived. The two exchanged a few words before Pence also shook hands with former First Lady Melania Trump. However, former Second Lady Karen Pence remained seated and did not acknowledge Trump’s presence.
This reunion comes after a tumultuous period between Trump and Pence, who had a falling out following the 2020 presidential election. Pence, who briefly ran for president in 2024 but dropped out in October 2023, did not endorse Trump during the election. The former vice president and Trump have publicly criticized each other, with Trump calling Pence “delusional” in 2023 and Pence stating that he could not endorse Trump “in good conscience.”
The funeral also brought together all five living former presidents – Biden, Clinton, George W. Bush, Obama, and Trump – for the first time since the 2018 funeral of former President George H.W. Bush. Former Vice Presidents Dan Quayle and Al Gore were also in attendance, along with other dignitaries and world leaders.
The memorial service honored Jimmy Carter as a humanitarian who made a significant impact both in the U.S. and around the world. Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2023, was remembered for his dedication to public service and his efforts to promote peace and human rights.
Following the funeral, Carter’s remains will be flown to Georgia for a private ceremony in his hometown of Plains. The U.S. Air Force will transport his casket aboard Special Air Mission 39 as a final tribute to the former president.
In conclusion, the funeral of Jimmy Carter brought together political figures from across the spectrum to pay their respects to a man who dedicated his life to serving others. The event also served as a moment of reconciliation between Trump and Pence, who put aside their differences to honor the legacy of a great leader.
