President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed his intention to attend the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. Trump made the remarks during a brief interaction with reporters at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, where he was hosting a New Year’s Eve party.
When asked about his plans to attend the services, Trump replied, “I’ll be there.” Pressed further on whether he had spoken to members of the Carter family, he declined to elaborate, saying, “I’d rather not say.”
Honouring a legacy
Funeral services for Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in US history, will take place in Georgia and Washington, D.C., from January 4 to January 9. Despite sharp criticism of Carter during his campaign, Trump struck a conciliatory tone following the former president’s passing.
Writing on his social media platform, Trump paid tribute to Carter, stating:
“While I strongly disagreed with him philosophically and politically, I also realised that he truly loved and respected our country, and all it stands for. He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that, I give him my highest respect.”
Reflecting on carter’s presidency
Carter’s presidency, which spanned from 1977 to 1981, was marked by significant challenges, including economic struggles and international tensions. During his campaign trail, Trump frequently used the high inflation rates of the 1970s as a point of criticism, drawing parallels between Carter’s administration and the Biden presidency.
However, following Carter’s death, Trump’s remarks underscored a recognition of Carter’s dedication to public service and his contributions to American society.
Addressing broader issues
Dressed in a tuxedo as he greeted reporters, Trump answered questions on various topics beyond the funeral. On the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, he remarked: “We’re going to see what happens,” referring to the possibility of a ceasefire.
He also expressed urgency regarding the hostages taken by Hamas over a year ago, stating: “They better let the hostages come back soon.”
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Turning to his vision for the future, Trump spoke optimistically about the year ahead, saying, “2025 is going to be a great year, and we’re going to do fantastically well as a country. There’s a whole light over the whole world, not just our country.”
New year’s resolutions
When asked about his New Year’s resolutions, Trump kept his message simple: “I just want everybody to be happy, healthy, and well.” He later took to the stage at Mar-a-Lago, addressing the crowd and promising to deliver “a great job as your president.”
Biden’s new year’s celebrations
Meanwhile, outgoing President Joe Biden marked New Year’s Eve at the wedding of his niece, Missy Owens, in Greenville, Delaware. Biden and First Lady Jill Biden had returned early from their traditional holiday trip to the US Virgin Islands to attend the ceremony.
As Trump prepares to transition into office, his attendance at Carter’s funeral will signal a moment of unity and respect, honouring a figure whose legacy has shaped American history. The nation looks ahead to a year of change and new leadership as it bids farewell to one of its most enduring statesmen.
