At Jimmy Carter’s funeral on January 9, 2025, a moment stood out to many people. Former Vice President Mike Pence shook hands with Donald Trump, marking the first time they met publicly since 2021. This handshake between the two men was unexpected for some. Trump and Pence had a rough end to their relationship when Pence refused to support Trump’s attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 election.
Mike Pence and Trump had not seen each other in a public setting for years. The last time they were together like this was when Pence rejected Trump’s plan during the Capitol riot in 2021. Pence’s refusal to follow Trump’s demand to reject the election results caused a major break between the two. But despite this, Mike Pence extended his hand to Trump at Carter’s funeral.
However, what caught many people’s attention was the reaction of Karen Pence, Mike Pence’s wife. While Mike Pence shook hands with Trump, Karen Pence did not. She appeared to ignore Trump completely, not shaking his hand or acknowledging him. This moment added to the growing signs of division within the Republican Party, showing that even former allies have trouble getting along.
Trump and Pence shake hands at the Jimmy Carter funeral pic.twitter.com/Z8UVXTVNYQ
— Acyn (@Acyn) January 9, 2025
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Mike Pence had been very clear about his decision not to endorse Trump for the 2024 presidential race. In March 2024, Pence explained, “Donald Trump is pursuing and articulating an agenda that is at odds with the conservative agenda that we governed on during our four years. That’s why I cannot, in good conscience, endorse Donald Trump in this campaign.” These words showed just how deep the split between the two men had become. It was not just a small disagreement—it was a disagreement about what direction the Republican Party should go in.
Despite this, Pence still greeted Trump with a handshake at the funeral. This act might have been done out of politeness or duty, but it’s clear that their relationship is still strained. Karen Pence’s refusal to shake Trump’s hand, however, tells a different story. It shows that not everyone is willing to move past the events that happened in 2020.
Some Republicans still support Trump, while others, like Mike Pence, believe that Trump’s actions are not good for the party or the country. The division within the GOP is becoming more and more obvious. The party is not as united as it may appear to outsiders. Even at a funeral, where many might expect unity, there are clear signs of a split.
While Trump remains popular with some voters, many Republicans, including former allies, are distancing themselves from him. The Republican Party faces a crucial decision in the coming years. Will they continue to follow Trump, or will they move in a new direction? The future of the party will depend on how these divisions are addressed.
Featured image via Screengrab
