The funeral of Jimmy Carter in Washington, DC on Thursday brought together many national leaders to pay respect to the 39th commander-in-chief.
The church’s two front pews were occupied by former presidents and their spouses. The church’s front two pews were occupied by President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, President-elect Donald Trump and his wife Melania, as well as Vice President Kamala and her husband Doug Emhoff.
Michelle Obama was conspicuously absent. Her office did not provide any information as to why Michelle Obama chose not to attend.
Crystal Carson, White House spokeswoman, confirmed that Michelle Obama, former First Lady, was not at the funeral of President Carter. Crystal Carson stated in a press release, “Mrs. Obama’s thoughts and prayer are with the Carter Family and all those who loved and learned from the Carter’s remarkable former presidency.”
CNN reported Michelle Obama is still in Hawaii and could not attend due to “scheduling conflicts”.
During the 2024 presidential campaign Michelle Obama, who many Democrats wanted to run for president, ripped Trump at various points. So did her husband, former President Barack Obama, who could be seen conversing, smiling, and laughing with Trump, his White House successor, for several minutes before the start of Carter’s funeral.
