The most exclusive fraternity in the world, consisting of former United States presidents, will gather on Thursday to honor one of their own, former President Jimmy Carter. The rare occasion will see all living members of the presidents club coming together for the first time since the funeral of George H.W. Bush in 2018.
This historic event will take place at the Washington National Cathedral, where Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden are expected to pay their respects to Carter, who passed away on December 29.
The gathering of these former presidents, each with their unique legacies and past rivalries, will be closely watched as they come together to honor a man who stood apart from them figuratively. Despite their differences, the shared experience of serving in the Oval Office binds them together in this solemn moment.
Jimmy Carter’s long and impactful life, spanning 17 American presidents, left a lasting legacy that transcended party lines. Democrats and Republicans alike paid tribute to his post-presidency example, despite the complexities in his relationships with some of his successors.
In death, as in life, Carter’s influence continues to be felt as current and former presidents reflect on his legacy and the mark he left on the nation. The gathering of the presidents club at his state funeral serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of his presidency and his commitment to serving the American people.