Pence divulges words exchanged with President-elect Trump at Carter funeral
Former Vice President Mike Pence recently shared details about his brief interaction with President-elect Trump at former President Carter’s state funeral. This marked the first public sighting of the pair since their departure from the White House amidst disagreements over the 2020 election results. The encounter took place at the National Cathedral, where Pence stood up to greet Trump and exchange pleasantries. Interestingly, former second lady Karen Pence, seated next to her husband, did not acknowledge Trump’s presence.
In an interview with Christianity Today, Pence described the moment as an opportunity to reconnect with Trump. He recounted extending his hand to Trump, congratulating him on his presidential win, to which Trump responded with a simple “Thanks, Mike.” Pence also reflected on a conversation he had with Trump in 2021, where he expressed his intention to continue praying for him. Trump’s response of “Don’t bother” highlighted the lingering tensions between the two men.
During their brief exchange, Pence acknowledged the irreconcilable differences they held regarding Pence’s constitutional obligations on January 6. Despite this, Pence reaffirmed his commitment to praying for Trump, a promise he has upheld since their conversation. This gesture of goodwill showcased Pence’s dedication to maintaining a sense of civility and respect, even in the face of political discord.
While the interaction at Carter’s memorial service appeared amicable, Pence expressed reservations about certain political appointments. He voiced concerns about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s suitability for managing Health and Human Services and questioned the potential appointment of former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as national intelligence director. These remarks underscore Pence’s continued engagement in political discourse and his willingness to offer critical perspectives on key appointments.
Fox News Digital reached out to both Trump and Advancing American Freedom, a public policy advocacy organization founded by Pence, for their responses to Pence’s comments. However, no immediate feedback was received from either party. The evolving dynamics between Pence and Trump reflect the complexities of post-administration relationships and the ongoing impact of past disagreements on future interactions.
In conclusion, the exchange between Pence and Trump at Carter’s state funeral serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring complexities in political relationships. Despite their differences, Pence’s commitment to civility and prayer underscores a sense of humanity and respect in the midst of political discord. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the significance of maintaining open dialogue and mutual respect remains paramount for fostering constructive engagement and understanding.
