Before Joseph R. Biden Jr. was sworn in 2021, Donald J. Trump held the record for the countryβs oldest commander in chief. He reclaimed the record on Monday.
President-elect Donald J. Trump had complained that flags were scheduled to fly at half-staff β a symbol of mourning for former President Jimmy Carter β on the day of his inauguration.
At a pomp-filled state funeral, mourners paid tribute to Mr. Carter and argued that he was a more successful leader than many remember. βItβs time to redeem his presidency,β a former aide said.
For decades, Republicans have reveled in invoking Jimmy Carterβs name to deride Democrats as weak β mockery that has influenced the way Democrats present themselves to voters.
While cold weather and heightened security most likely dampened turnout, thousands of well-wishers still traipsed through the snow and ice to pay final tribute to the 39th president.
Jimmy Carter and Gerald R. Ford faced off in 1976 in a bitter campaign but later bonded as few presidents have β and made a pact to speak at each otherβs funerals.
Former President Jimmy Carter, who once banned the playing of βHail to the Chief,β will be honored with three days of elaborate ceremonies in the nationβs capital.