During the solemn state funeral for the late former President Jimmy Carter, many were surprised to see President-elect Donald Trump and former President Obama engaging in what appeared to be a pleasant exchange, even sharing a few laughs. This unexpected camaraderie piqued the interest of onlookers.
A well-known lip reader, Jeremy Freeman, shared his interpretation of their conversation with The Daily Mail. He claimed that Trump suggested an important meeting between the two in a “quiet place” to address an unspecified issue.
The lip reader reported that Obama seemed to express some frustration, replying, “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine, yeah. It’s a chore, a chore.” To this, Trump allegedly responded with a hint of disbelief, “Yeah, right. I can’t think of anything that’s a chore.”
Based on Freeman’s reading, Obama continued, perhaps referencing public opinion or obstacles by saying: “Even if they aren’t happy, you will come across it, it’s a chore. Now, they can block the entrance, all right.” In response, Trump reportedly leaned closer and remarked: “I’ve pulled out of that. It’s the conditions. Can you imagine that?” Obama seemed amused, chuckling at Trump’s words.
The lip reader also suggested that later in the conversation, Obama inquired about Trump’s plans: “Are you going back to the foy after?” Trump confirmed, “Call me at the foy after, yep.” Although the term ‘foy’ was unclear, it was speculated that they were discussing a meeting in the ‘foyer’ area.
The dialogue continued with Obama suggesting: “Can you just… it should be good.” Trump emphasized the need for privacy and urgency: “I can’t talk, we have to find a quiet place. This is important, and we need to deal with it today.” Both men seemed to agree, with mutual nods of understanding.
After the funeral, Fox News’ Peter Doocy approached Trump for clarification on their discussion. Trump acknowledged the amicability of their exchange, saying, “It did look very friendly.” He added, “Boy, they look like two people that like each other, and we probably do. We have a little different philosophies, right? But I think we probably do.”
Carter, who passed at the remarkable age of 100, was honored at the National Cathedral on Thursday, with all living presidents in attendance, marking a day of national remembrance. However, the event also had its tense moments. Former Vice President Harris’s presence nearby briefly paused Trump and Obama’s conversation, though they soon resumed. Harris, momentarily turning back toward them, seemed exasperated, a sentiment shared by her husband Doug Emhoff.
Amidst these exchanges, Melania Trump and Laura Bush sat nearby, maintaining their composure. The Clintons engaged in their own quiet chatter, while Bush appeared to be acknowledging others present.
A controversy arose when Karen Pence, wife of former Vice President Mike Pence, notably declined to shake hands with Melania Trump during the funeral. This incident occurred as the Trumps made a notable public appearance at the cathedral following Trump’s 2024 presidential election victory.
Despite the snub, Melania managed the situation graciously with a polite smile. Social media users were quick to criticize, with comments such as, “People with no class make classless moves,” and another remarking, “I would expect nothing less from a Pence.”
Another user expressed disappointment, “They did not even acknowledge Melania neither did Bush’s wife… those jealous morons. The mean girls ex-first lady club.”
