Former first lady Michelle Obama was noticeably absent from former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral at Washington National Cathedral on Thursday. According to Politico, Michelle Obama has a schedule glitch and is currently in Hawaii, a person familiar with her schedule told Politico.
Her office confirmed her absence, with spokeswoman Crystal Carson saying, “Former First Lady Michelle Obama is not in attendance at the national funeral service for President Carter. Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family and all those who met her. Loved and learned from him.” According to the Associated Press, notable former Pres.
Specifically, Michelle Obama would have been seated next to former President Donald Trump, who was seated next to her husband, former President Barack Obama. The two talked for several minutes before the funeral began. Barack Obama, a Democrat, appeared to speak cordially to his Republican successor, as did former Democratic President Bill Clinton and his Republican successor, George W. Bush.
The funeral featured a rare joint appearance by the five living presidents, including Obama, Trump, Clinton, George W. Bush and President Joe Biden. They were joined by their spouses, who, excluding Michelle Obama, included former first lady Melania Trump, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former first lady Laura Bush and first lady Jill Biden. Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff, as well as former Vice President Mike Pence and former second lady Karen Pence, were also in attendance.
The event featured prominent leaders past and present, as well as dignitaries from all branches of the U.S. government and representatives of foreign leaders.
CNN reported that Michelle Obama was on an “extended vacation” in Hawaii, which conflicted with the funeral schedule. Her spokesperson did not comment on whether she would attend President Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Dignitaries will gather again in Washington for the inauguration, another important event that brings together the country’s leaders.
