Former President Jimmy Carter lies in state at US Capitol

WASHINGTON

The casket of former President Jimmy Carter arrived at the Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday, where he will lie in state until Thursday morning, watched over by a military honor guard.

The ceremony brought together Supreme Court justices, Cabinet members and congressional leaders, honoring Carter’s enduring legacy.

The casket was carried into the Rotunda by military body bearers after a 21-gun salute, with the US Army Band Brass Quintet performing as attendees gathered. Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune delivered eulogies.

Harris praised Carter as a “respected global leader,” noting his efforts to broker peace between Israel and Egypt and his impactful work in public health after leaving the presidency. She described his contributions as “echoing for generations to come.”

Johnson reflected on Carter’s early life in rural Georgia and his commitment to service through the non-profit organization Habitat for Humanity, which helps build and improve homes for families of low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds. He highlighted Carter’s faith, saying “he reminded us that we are all made in the image of God.”

Thune celebrated Carter’s lifelong dedication to improving lives, particularly during his historic post-presidency.

“He focused on making the lives of his fellow men better,” he said.

The state funeral for Carter, the 39th president of the US, who passed away on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, will take place on Jan. 9 at Washington National Cathedral.