A solemn decision marks the federal government's tribute to America's 39th president, who left an indelible mark on the nation's history.
According to Fox News, President Biden signed an executive order to close all federal government departments and agencies on January 9 as a mark of respect for former President Jimmy Carter, coinciding with his funeral services.
The closure announcement comes alongside plans for Carter to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, with funeral services scheduled at Washington National Cathedral. President Biden has designated January 9 as a National Day of Mourning, ordering American flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days. The White House's announcement reflects the profound impact of Carter's passing on the nation's collective conscience.
President Biden issued a proclamation on Sunday that extends beyond government closure, reaching out to both Americans and the international community. In his statement directed to the American people, Biden called for a unified observance of Carter's memory. The president's words carry significant weight as they acknowledge the global impact of Carter's legacy.
Biden's proclamation explicitly invites citizens to gather in their places of worship to pay homage to Carter's memory. The president's declaration demonstrates the administration's commitment to honoring Carter's contributions to American democracy and global humanitarian causes.
The federal government's decision to close its operations represents an extraordinary measure typically reserved for marking the passing of former presidents. This action underscores the significance of Carter's role in American history and his continued influence on public service.
Jimmy Carter's journey to the presidency began with his service in the United States Naval Academy, where he developed the leadership skills that would later define his political career. His subsequent service in Atlantic and Pacific fleets established a foundation of military experience that would inform his future policy decisions.
Before ascending to the presidency, Carter's political career included serving as a state senator and as Georgia's 76th governor. These roles prepared him for the challenges he would face in the nation's highest office, where he would leave an enduring legacy through the establishment of key governmental departments.
During his presidency, Carter played pivotal roles in creating the Department of Education and the Department of Energy. His administration emphasized conservation efforts and nuclear nonproliferation, demonstrating a commitment to both domestic and international concerns.
From the White House statement about Carter's passing, Biden said:
As President, he understood that Government must be as good as its people — and his faith in the people was boundless, just as his belief in America was limitless and his hope for our common future was perennial.
Carter's post-presidential work focused on humanitarian efforts and democracy promotion worldwide. His dedication to public service extended far beyond his time in office, encompassing initiatives in global peace, disease eradication, and human rights advocacy.
The former president's partnership with his wife Rosalynn, spanning more than 77 years, exemplified their shared commitment to public service. Their joint efforts in humanitarian causes, particularly through their work with Habitat for Humanity, created a lasting impact on communities worldwide.
President Biden's decision to close the federal government on January 9 marks a significant moment of national mourning for former President Jimmy Carter, who served as the nation's 39th president. The closure coincides with Carter's lying in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda and funeral services at Washington National Cathedral. The commemorative events, including the 30-day half-staff flag display and National Day of Mourning, reflect the profound respect for Carter's lifetime of service.
