All living former presidents and their spouses attended the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, except for former first lady Michelle Obama. President Barack Obama was seated in the front pews alongside other past presidents, including Donald Trump, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, as well as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and their spouses.
Michelle Obama’s absence was confirmed by her spokesperson, Crystal Carson, who did not disclose the reason for her decision to skip the funeral. Carson released a statement saying, “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.”
Reports from CNN indicated that Michelle Obama had a scheduling conflict, as she remained in Hawaii on an “extended vacation.” Her absence stood out in contrast to the rare gathering of past and present national leaders, an event traditionally marked by bipartisan unity and respect. State funerals for former presidents are among the few occasions where the nation’s top political figures come together, often accompanied by foreign dignitaries and government representatives.
Barack Obama, known for his Democratic affiliation, was observed exchanging pleasantries with his Republican successor, Donald Trump. Similarly, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush engaged in civil interactions, showcasing a temporary truce among political adversaries. Even Trump and his former vice president, Mike Pence, shared a handshake despite tensions stemming from Pence’s refusal to support Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, notes the Associated Press.
The next significant gathering of these political figures is scheduled for January 20, when Trump will be inaugurated for his second term as president. Michelle Obama’s spokesperson has not yet confirmed whether she plans to attend the event.
