Former US president Jimmy Carter farewelled at state funeral

At the state funeral for "a great American," Jimmy Carter, in Washington, D.C., current U.S. President Joe Biden lauded the former president's "strength of character" and faith. Mr. Biden delivered a eulogy for his predecessor at the Washington National Cathedral, with former presidents Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, along with numerous dignitaries, in attendance.

Mr. Carter, the 39th U.S. President and a noted philanthropist, passed away on December 29th at the age of 100. Mr. Biden recalled his friendship with his predecessor, and how Mr. Carter had first supported Biden's run for president, then a Senator from Georgia, in 1976. Carter entered the White House during a period of soaring inflation and geopolitical turmoil, serving only one term (1977-1981), but was lauded for his continued public service after leaving office.

“Jimmy Carter's friendship taught me, and through his life taught me, that the strength of character is far more powerful than titles or the power we wield,” said Mr. Biden. “It is a power that understands that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect. Everyone, and I mean everyone, should have an equal chance.” The outgoing president, who will hand over power to Trump on January 20th, also used the eulogy to warn against the “abuse of power,” adding: “We have an obligation not to give hate a safe harbor, and to stand up against the greatest evil: the abuse of power.”

Throughout the memorial service, family and close friends lauded his values, politically difficult decisions, and his dedication to humanitarian and environmental causes. Jimmy Carter's grandson, Jason, commemorated his grandfather with personal anecdotes, humor, and admiration at the state funeral. He portrayed his grandfather as a humble "grandpa" from a small town, who remained closely connected to marginalized communities despite his global renown. Jason highlighted Carter’s strong drive, ambition, and unwavering commitment to helping others, both in and out of politics.

He also referenced a song from the church that reminded him of his grandfather’s life, which he described as a constant reflection on the goodness of God. Finally, he expressed gratitude to the attendees, particularly the former presidents and first ladies, for recognizing the human side of the American presidency. Mr. Biden also reflected on Mr. Carter's post-presidency, saying he used his time after leaving office to make "powerful change." "That is the definition of a good life, and Jimmy Carter lived that life in his 100 years."

Jason Carter also praised his grandfather for recognizing climate change as early as the 1970s, as well as his determination to eliminate preventable diseases around the world. “Half a century ago, he was preaching to end racial discrimination and end mass incarceration,” he said. “Fifty years ago, he was a climate warrior, pushing for a world that conserves energy, limits emissions and replaces our dependence on fossil fuels with expanded renewable energy.” The president’s grandson said Carter pursued a progressive agenda, calling him the world’s oldest millennial.

“He cut the deficit, wanted to legalize marijuana, and deregulated many industries, which gave us cheap flights and craft beer,” he said. “As president, he gave a voice to dissidents, stood up to dictators, and brought nations together for peace.” Also in attendance at the memorial service were Vice President Kamala Harris, former Vice President Mike Pence, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also attended the ceremony.