In a significant moment, former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence were seen interacting publicly for the first time in four years at former President Jimmy Carter's funeral service. The encounter took place on Thursday at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

Upon Trump's arrival, Pence stood to shake his hand, followed by a brief exchange of words. Pence also shook hands with former First Lady Melania Trump. Former Second Lady Karen Pence, however, remained seated and did not appear to acknowledge Trump.

This interaction follows a period of public distance and strained relations between the two men since leaving office. Their disagreements stemmed from the 2020 election results and the legal challenges that followed. Pence's brief and unsuccessful presidential campaign against Trump in the 2024 primaries further highlighted the divide. Pence dropped out of the race in October 2023 and notably did not endorse Trump.

Both Trump and Pence have publicly criticized each other in recent years. In 2023, Trump labeled Pence "delusional," while Pence stated he could not "in good conscience" endorse Trump.

Carter's funeral also marked a rare gathering of all five living former U.S. presidents: President Biden, and former Presidents Clinton, George W. Bush, Obama, and Trump. This was their first time together since the 2018 funeral of former President George H.W. Bush. Former Vice Presidents Dan Quayle and Al Gore were also present.

After the funeral service in Washington, Carter's remains were transported to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private burial ceremony. The 39th president passed away on December 29th at the age of 100, having entered hospice care in 2023.