Former President Jimmy Carter to Lie in State at U.S. Capitol
The ceremony, set to take place in the Capitol Rotunda, will include eulogies delivered by Harris, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.).
WASHINGTON — Former President Jimmy Carter will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol beginning Tuesday, following a memorial service attended by Vice President Kamala Harris, congressional leaders, and other dignitaries.
The ceremony, set to take place in the Capitol Rotunda, will include eulogies delivered by Harris, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). Members of Carter’s presidential Cabinet, Supreme Court justices, governors, and other prominent officials are also expected to attend.
The late president’s casket will arrive at the Capitol around 4:30 p.m., with public viewing scheduled from 7 p.m. to midnight. Carter will lie in state through Thursday morning, culminating in a service at Washington National Cathedral.
A Tribute Reflecting History
Carter’s journey to the Capitol will begin earlier in the day with the transfer of his remains from the Carter Presidential Library in Atlanta to Joint Base Andrews near Washington. From there, a motorcade will transport him to the U.S. Navy Memorial on Pennsylvania Avenue.
In a symbolic gesture echoing his 1977 inaugural parade, Carter’s casket will be transferred to a horse-drawn caisson for the final leg of the procession to the Capitol. The event mirrors Carter’s decision to walk alongside his family during his inauguration, a move aimed at fostering a connection with the American people.
The public is encouraged to line the procession route along Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues to pay their respects. Once at the Capitol, honorary pallbearers will place the flag-draped casket on the historic Lincoln Catafalque in the Rotunda.
Remembering a Legacy
Carter, who passed away on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, holds the distinction of being the longest-living former U.S. president. His presidency, from 1977 to 1981, was marked by a focus on human rights, environmental conservation, and global diplomacy. In recent years, he became widely respected for his humanitarian efforts, including work with Habitat for Humanity.
President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy during Thursday’s service at Washington National Cathedral, which will mark a national day of mourning. Following the service, Carter’s remains will return to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a final tribute at Maranatha Baptist Church and a private burial service.
Carter is the first president to lie in state at the Capitol since George H.W. Bush in 2018. His passing is a significant moment of reflection for the nation, honoring a leader who dedicated his life to public service and fostering unity.
