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President Joe Biden has proclaimed Thursday, January 9, as a national day of mourning to honor the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States.
The announcement coincides with Carter’s state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral, following his passing on December 29 at the age of 100. Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, was the longest-living U.S. president and remained a tireless advocate for humanitarian causes throughout his life.
“Jimmy Carter, with humble roots as a farmer and family man, devoted his life to public service and defending our freedom,” said Lynn Martin, president of NYSE Group, as she announced the closure of the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday in Carter’s honor.
In addition to ordering flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days, Biden issued an executive order closing federal offices on January 9. Essential government workers will remain on duty, but post offices will close, and most mail services will be suspended.
Wall Street will also largely shut down in a gesture of respect. Both the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq have confirmed that trading of U.S. equities and options will be suspended. “President Carter was an exemplary leader, one who tirelessly continued his efforts to improve the human condition even after his tenure in public office was complete,” said Tal Cohen, president of Nasdaq.
While the bond market will close early at 2 p.m. Eastern Time, most banks and public schools will remain open as the day is not an official federal holiday. Many schools, however, plan to observe a minute of silence at 10 a.m. to coincide with Carter’s funeral service.
Carter’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes celebrating his decades of public service and unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes. “His contributions will be felt by those around the world for years to come,” Cohen added.
As the nation remembers Carter, his legacy of humility, integrity, and service stands as a testament to his enduring impact on American and global history.
