President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed he will attend the funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter, scheduled to take place in both Georgia and Washington starting January 4. The announcement comes just days after Carter’s passing at the age of 100, leaving a legacy of humanitarianism and diplomacy.
Despite being a frequent critic of Carter during his campaign, Trump expressed a willingness to honor the late president, adding an unexpected note of bipartisanship to the somber occasion.
Trump to Attend as Nation Mourns Carter
Speaking briefly to reporters as he arrived at his New Year’s Eve celebration at Mar-a-Lago, Trump stated simply, “I’ll be there,” when asked about attending the funeral. The president-elect declined to provide further details about any conversations with Carter’s family, citing a preference for privacy.
Carter, the 39th president, passed away on December 29, 2024, following a lifetime dedicated to public service, diplomacy, and humanitarian work. His funeral arrangements include services in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, as well as in Washington, D.C., allowing Americans from across the nation to pay their respects.
A Complex Relationship: Trump and Carter
During his campaign, Trump frequently referenced Carter’s presidency to draw unfavorable comparisons to the current administration under President Joe Biden. Inflation and economic turmoil of the 1970s served as a focal point for these critiques. However, in the wake of Carter’s passing, Trump struck a more conciliatory tone.
On his social media platform, Trump shared a message honoring Carter’s contributions, acknowledging the former president’s lifelong commitment to peace and humanitarian causes. The gesture was seen as a nod to Carter’s enduring influence, even among political adversaries.
Funeral Services to Span Nearly a Week
The weeklong commemorations for Carter begin on January 4 in Georgia, his home state, and conclude on January 9 in Washington. The events are expected to draw dignitaries, including sitting and former presidents, as well as leaders from around the world who were touched by Carter’s global initiatives.
Key details of the funeral schedule include:
- A memorial service at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, Carter’s spiritual home.
- A state funeral in Washington, D.C., with tributes from national and international figures.
- Carter’s burial in Plains, in a private ceremony for family and close friends.
Public and Political Reactions
The announcement of Trump’s attendance has sparked mixed reactions. While some applaud the gesture as a sign of unity, others view it through the lens of political strategy. Analysts note that Trump’s presence at the funeral may serve to soften his image as he prepares to assume the presidency.
Meanwhile, tributes to Carter continue to pour in. President Biden called Carter “a tireless advocate for peace and justice,” highlighting his post-presidential work with Habitat for Humanity and efforts to eradicate diseases worldwide.
Carter’s humanitarian legacy has also resonated deeply with the public. From his work promoting democracy to his role as a mediator in international conflicts, he remains a symbol of integrity and compassion.
