The funeral service for former President Jimmy Carter brought together some of the most prominent names in American politics, but it wasn’t just the solemn occasion that captured attention. An apparent cold shoulder from Karen Pence, the wife of former Vice President Mike Pence, toward President-elect Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump has sparked considerable buzz.
Mike Pence Adds Fuel to the Fire
In an interview with Christianity Today, Mike Pence appeared to hint at his wife’s feelings toward the Trumps when asked about the incident. Karen Pence was notably observed avoiding even a glance in Trump’s direction when he approached their row.
“You’d have to ask my wife about her posture,” Pence remarked when questioned. “But we’ve been married 44 years, and she loves her husband, and her husband respects her deeply.”
While Pence’s response was measured, it did little to dispel speculation that Karen’s actions were intentional. The Pences’ relationship with Trump has been fraught since the former vice president refused to support Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. Carter’s funeral marked the first time the two had been in the same room since leaving office in January 2021.
A Subtle Yet Telling Moment
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When Trump arrived, he greeted Mike Pence with a handshake and brief words of acknowledgment. “I stood up, extended my hand. He shook my hand. I said, ‘Congratulations, Mr. President,’ and he said, ‘Thanks, Mike,’” Pence recalled in the interview. However, Karen Pence remained seated and did not acknowledge Trump or Melania, despite warmly greeting former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura Bush.
This subtle gesture did not go unnoticed, especially given the backdrop of strained relations between the Pences and Trumps. Political commentator Ron Filipkowski took to X (formerly Twitter) to point out Karen Pence’s apparent disregard for the Trumps, writing, “Karen Pence wants nothing to do with Donald or Melania Trump.”
Karen Pence wants nothing to do with Donald or Melania Trump. pic.twitter.com/VJB14nzOhR
— Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) January 9, 2025
A Gathering of Political Heavyweights
The funeral brought together past presidents, vice presidents, and other influential figures. Among them were Bill and Hillary Clinton, George and Laura Bush, and Barack Obama, who attended in place of his wife, Michelle Obama. Her absence, reportedly due to a scheduling conflict, also drew attention as she was supposed to sit beside the president-elect. Obama, however, seemed unfazed, engaging in lighthearted conversation with Trump despite their contentious political history.
The Bigger Picture
Karen Pence’s behavior is not the first time she or her husband has signaled discontent with Trump. Over the years, Mike Pence has distanced himself from Trump’s rhetoric and actions, particularly in the aftermath of the January 6 Capitol attack. Karen’s apparent snub at the funeral may reflect a continuation of this divergence, underscoring the fractured relationship between the former allies.
While some may view the incident as minor, others see it as emblematic of a deeper divide within the Republican Party. With Trump preparing to re-enter the White House and Mike Pence navigating his post-vice-presidency role, these moments of tension could hint at the challenges ahead for the GOP’s unity.
As the nation mourns the loss of a president who championed unity and service, the political undercurrents at the funeral highlight the ongoing divisions in today’s political landscape.
Featured image via screengrab
