President-elect Trump and Melania Trump attended former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral in Washington, D.C., on Thursday. Trump and one of his fiercest rivals, Barack Obama, seemed to set politics aside.
Trump and Obama were seen chatting and laughing as they sat in the second row of dignitaries. They appeared to enjoy several moments of light conversation while others took their seats.
Wearing a dark suit and a subdued blue tie, Trump arrived shortly before 10 a.m. ET. As he entered, former Vice President Al Gore greeted him with a smile and stood up to shake his hand.
Gore, attending alone, has been separated from his wife Tipper Gore since 2010. Notably, former Vice President Dick Cheney and his wife, Lynne Cheney, were absent from the ceremony.
Trump briefly greeted former Vice President Mike Pence as he entered the row. The two have had a strained relationship since the events of January 6, 2021. Pence appeared to say, “Good to see you,” though it wasn’t entirely clear.
Karen Pence remained seated during the interaction, avoiding eye contact with Trump. Shortly after, former President Obama arrived, sharing a quick, jovial exchange with former Vice President Dan Quayle.
Obama took his seat, engaging in more lighthearted conversation with Trump. Meanwhile, former President George W. Bush arrived with Laura Bush, receiving warm greetings from nearly everyone.
The Pences, Gore, and the Quayles all greeted Bush warmly. Trump and Obama, however, continued their own conversation, ignoring the arrival of Bill and Hillary Clinton.
Hillary Clinton sat down as George W. Bush stood to greet her. Despite recent health challenges, Bill Clinton appeared energetic during the ceremony.
Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Douglas Emhoff arrived soon after. Trump and Harris did not acknowledge each other, and Emhoff focused straight ahead, avoiding eye contact.
Harris briefly glanced back at Obama and Trump chatting, appearing uncomfortable. She turned her attention back to the somber occasion as the Clintons read their programs.
Finally, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrived. Trump and Obama paid no attention to them, with Trump instead chatting with Melania. The Bidens quietly took their seats without greeting other dignitaries.
A screenshot shared on X captured Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau watching Trump as he entered the venue.