Former Vice President Mike Pence and former President Trump crossed paths at Jimmy Carter’s funeral service, where Pence offered Trump a brief and cordial acknowledgment of his return to the White House.
Key Facts:
– The encounter happened during the funeral service for former President Jimmy Carter.
– Pence said he stood to shake Trump’s hand and congratulated him.
– It was the first time the two were in the same room since leaving office in January 2021.
– Karen Pence did not greet Trump or Melania Trump during the service.
– Their relationship had soured over Jan. 6, 2021, when Pence refused to reject Biden’s election win.
The Rest of The Story:
Mike Pence recounted his interaction with Trump at the funeral, recalling that Trump simply responded, “Thanks, Mike.”
This moment came after years of tension following the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021.
Pence has stood by his decision to certify the 2020 election results, saying he lacked any legal authority to change them.
The meeting underscored the complex ties between the two.
Karen Pence’s choice to remain seated during the greeting spotlighted the lingering discord.
Pence told Christianity Today he respected his wife’s decision and described her enduring support for him.
The funeral brought together many figures from Washington’s political history, with Trump seated in a prominent position.
Pence admitted he found it surprising to share a notable place at such an event, reflecting on his own political journey.
Although differences remain, Pence shared optimism that their handshake might signal a path toward calmer relations within the GOP.
Still, he made it clear he would not endorse Trump in the 2024 race.
The brief meeting, surrounded by solemn commemorations of President Carter’s life, reminded many of the deep divisions left over from Trump’s first term.
Whether this minor exchange signals a lasting thaw is uncertain, but it is the most significant gesture between them since they went their separate ways.
When you go to a wedding, and you run into someone you don't like, you politely say hello, and move on. Because you're an adult.
Karen Pence blanked the President-elect and his wife… in a church… at a funeral… as a Christian….
Pathetic.pic.twitter.com/3j5TKEXGQ0
— John LeFevre (@JohnLeFevre) January 9, 2025
The Bottom Line:
Pence’s simple “congratulations” hints at a possible opening for healing, even if fractures remain.
Ties between Trump and Pence remain complicated, but this handshake allowed both men to coexist respectfully under somber circumstances.
Going forward, their relationship may influence GOP dynamics in the new administration’s first months.
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5080792-mike-pence-donald-trump-jimmy-carter-funeral/