In a moment that has ignited heated debate, Karen Pence, wife of former Vice President Mike Pence, chose to remain seated and ignore President-elect Donald Trump and incoming First Lady Melania Trump at the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter on January 9. While Mike Pence extended a handshake and a cordial “Congratulations, Mr. President,” his wife’s refusal to engage has drawn criticism from conservatives and moderates alike, many questioning her motives and the appropriateness of her behavior.
The funeral, held at the National Cathedral, brought together political figures from across the spectrum, offering a moment for unity and reflection. For Mike Pence, this marked his first face-to-face interaction with Trump since January 6, 2021—a day that strained their relationship. Despite the past tension, Mike Pence demonstrated respect and decorum, stating to *Christianity Today*:
> “The opportunity to speak to the president yesterday is something that I appreciated, I welcomed.”
In contrast, Karen Pence’s visible snub was interpreted as a deliberate act of disrespect. While Mike Pence refrained from critiquing his wife, stating diplomatically, *“You’d have to ask my wife about her posture, but we’ve been married 44 years, and she loves her husband, and her husband respects her deeply,”* her actions have sparked widespread backlash, even among Christian conservatives.
Critics were quick to highlight the apparent hypocrisy of Karen Pence’s actions, given her and her husband’s frequent invocation of Christian values. Many conservatives expressed dismay at the lack of grace and forgiveness shown in what should have been a solemn and unifying event. A clip of the moment circulated online, drawing sharp commentary. Pro-Trump influencer Johnny MAGA posted:
> “Classless move on behalf of Karen Pence. There was no need for this whatsoever.”
Others echoed this sentiment, accusing her of failing to exhibit the Christian charity she and her husband so often preach. One commenter remarked:
> “Is Karen Pence supposed to be a strong Christian like Mike claims to be all of the time? Shameful!!”
For many, the incident was more than just a breach of etiquette—it was a stark reminder of the fractures within the conservative movement. What should have been a moment of reconciliation, symbolized by Mike Pence’s handshake with Trump, was overshadowed by Karen Pence’s decision to let personal grievances dominate a public, sacred moment.
John LeFevre summed up the sentiment well:
> “When you go to a wedding, and you run into someone you don’t like, you politely say hello, and move on. Because you’re an adult. Karen Pence blanked the President-elect and his wife… in a church… at a funeral… as a Christian… Pathetic.”
This incident raises serious questions about the state of political and personal decorum. At a time when unity within the conservative movement is critical, petty displays like this only deepen divisions. Karen Pence’s actions not only disrespected the Trumps but also overshadowed the solemnity of President Carter’s funeral. While Mike Pence’s handshake offered a glimmer of hope for healing past wounds, his wife’s behavior served as a stark reminder of the challenges still ahead.
In the eyes of many, true Christian leadership requires grace and humility—qualities sadly absent in this moment.
