Nation Honors Jimmy Carter as Former President Lies in State

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, lay in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Wednesday as the nation paid tribute to his life and legacy. Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, was honored with a series of public memorial events leading up to his funeral on Thursday at Washington National Cathedral.

President-elect Donald Trump, who has had a contentious relationship with Carter, visited the Rotunda to pay his respects. Trump, who has both praised and criticized Carter in the past, paused solemnly in front of the flag-draped casket alongside his wife, Melania. The former president’s casket rested atop the Lincoln catafalque, surrounded by a military honor guard.

Carter, a Naval Academy graduate, peanut farmer, and one-term president, was often remembered for his post-presidential humanitarian work, including his efforts with Habitat for Humanity and his advocacy for global health and democracy. Despite a rocky presidency marked by economic challenges and international crises, Carter’s legacy has been reassessed more favorably in recent years.

“President Carter was the governor of the great state of Georgia when I was born,” said Lyn Leverett, one of the many citizens who braved freezing temperatures to pay their respects. “He’s been around my whole entire being. I just want to pay my respects to a decent person.”

Among the visitors were individuals with personal connections to Carter’s 1976 campaign, including Susan Prolman, who recalled hosting Carter in her New Hampshire home during his presidential bid. “He very kindly signed a little poster I made for him,” she said.

Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune eulogized Carter earlier in the week, highlighting his faith, humanitarian work, and commitment to peace. “In the face of illness, President Jimmy Carter brought lifesaving medicine. In the face of conflict, he brokered peace,” Johnson said during his tribute.

Carter’s funeral on Thursday will be attended by President Joe Biden, who will deliver a eulogy, as well as other living former presidents, including Trump. Following the service, Carter’s remains will be transported to Plains, Georgia, for a private burial next to his wife, Rosalynn Carter, at their family home.

As the nation reflects on Carter’s life, his legacy of humility, service, and dedication to others continues to resonate. “He cared about other people,” said Kim James, a Maryland resident. “That selflessness — it always stood out.”