At former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral on January 9, Karen Pence, wife of former Vice President Mike Pence, sparked an online uproar when she refused to shake hands with Melania Trump inside the Washington National Cathedral. This snub occurred during one of Melania’s first public appearances after Trump’s 2024 election win. While Mike Pence greeted the Trumps courteously, Karen turned away from Melania’s handshake, prompting criticism from many, especially regarding the lack of Christian grace in a church setting. Melania, however, responded with poise, offering only a polite smile despite the insult. The incident quickly went viral, with many condemning Karen Pence’s actions as classless and hypocritical given her Christian image.
