On Thursday, a historic event will take place as all five living members of the exclusive presidents club come together to honor the late former President Jimmy Carter. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden are expected to attend the state funeral of Carter, who passed away on December 29.
This rare gathering will be the first time since the funeral of George H.W. Bush in December 2018 that all living members of the club will be in the same place. The dynamic among the group is notably fractured, with tensions running high, particularly in light of recent political developments.
Author Kate Andersen Brower, in her book “Team of Five: The Presidents Club in the Age of Trump,” describes the current moment as one of the most contentious in modern history among these former presidents. Despite their differences, the shared experience of serving as President of the United States unites them in a unique bond.
The presidents club is a complex entity, influenced by past rivalries and future legacies. The return of Donald Trump to the White House adds another layer of complexity, given his strained relationships with his predecessors. However, the solemn occasion of honoring Jimmy Carter serves as a reminder of the common ground these men share, regardless of their political affiliations.
Linked by the understanding of the immense responsibility and isolation that comes with the presidency, the gathering at the Washington National Cathedral will be a momentous occasion. As the world watches, the interactions and dynamics among these former leaders will be closely observed, highlighting the intricate relationships within the presidents club.
