By Brendan Scanland
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Jimmy Carter arrived at the U.S. Capitol one last time to lie in state.
The casket of the 39th President arrived by horse-drawn caisson around 4:30 p.m. ET. The arrival ceremony kicked off shortly thereafter. Carter’s casket was welcomed by diplomats, Supreme Court Justices and members of Congress who paid their respects.
President Carter’s casket was carried out of the Carter Center Tuesday morning in Georgia before being flown to Washington, D.C.
People around the country continue to remember President Carter for his sacrifice to the nation, both as a Navy veteran and as Commander in Chief.
Vice President Kamala Harris, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R- SD) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R- LA) delivered eulogies at the ceremony.
“Jimmy Carter was that all too rare example of a gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty and grace,” said Harris. “He lived his faith, he served the people, and he left the world better than he found it.”
Regardless of political beliefs and ideology, Americans and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are honoring Carter’s legacy, especially his humanitarian and philanthropic contributions.
“President Carter’s life, his selfless service, his fight against cancer, and his lasting contributions to his fellow man are all truly remarkable. Whether he was in the White House or in his post presidential years as was discussed, President Carter was willing to roll up his own sleeves to serve and get the job done,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson (R- LA) during his eulogy.
Carter was born in Plains, GA and grew up on a family farm before graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy. Carter served in the Georgia State Senate before becoming governor of his home state in 1971. A few years later he would become President of the United States, only serving one term.
President Carter died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100. He was the longest-living former president. Carter will lie in state at the capitol from Tuesday evening until 7 a.m. Thursday.
Carter’s state funeral is scheduled for Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral. President Joe Biden has declared Thursday a National Day of Mourning.
