State Funerals for Former Officials: The Case of Walter Mondale

Is Former Vice President Walter Mondale Entitled to a State Funeral?

Walter Mondale, the 37th Vice President of the United States, will most likely not receive a state funeral, though such a decision would largely depend on his final wishes. While state funerals are customary for former presidents, they are rare for other former officials, such as vice presidents.

State Funerals: A Rare Honor

Only a handful of individuals who did not serve as the President of the United States have been given state funerals. These include Thaddeus Stevens, the World War I Unknown Soldier, General John J. Pershing, the World War II Unknown Soldier, General Douglas MacArthur, and Neil Armstrong. In total, six non-presidents have received this honor, and Walter Mondale, who served an honorable term as Vice President, does not appear on this list.

Conditions and Precedents

A state funeral for Walter Mondale would require more than just his service as Vice President. The decision would also hinge on his final wishes and the specific context of his passing. The process to honor a non-president with a state funeral involves significant steps, including a vote by Congress if the deceased is to lie in state in the US Capitol.

Conditions for a State Funeral

Final Wishes: In most cases, the deceased's wishes are honored. If Walter Mondale had explicitly requested a state funeral, the logistics would be more straightforward. However, without such a directive, the decision would be more complex. Government Decision: Even if the public or the family requested a state funeral, the ultimate decision lies with the government. The legislative branch would need to authorize the proceedings, and there would likely be support for such an honor. Covid-19 Restrictions: With ongoing health and safety concerns, particularly on the East Coast, the practical aspects of a state funeral could pose significant challenges. The complexity of coordinating such an event in the current climate is daunting.

Historical Context and Precedents

While state funerals for non-presidents are rare, there are some notable precedents. For instance:

Thaddeus Stevens: An influential politician during the Reconstruction Era, Stevens received a state funeral in 1868. World War I and II Unknown Soldiers: These soldiers, whose identities were never known, received state funerals as a symbolic gesture of national gratitude. General John J. Pershing and General Douglas MacArthur: Both military leaders received state funerals, reflecting the recognition of their significant contributions to the nation. Neil Armstrong: The first man on the moon, Armstrong received a state funeral, symbolizing the nation's respect for his achievement.

Walter Mondale will probably be remembered with the highest honors appropriate for his role as a Vice President, but a state funeral is unlikely given the specific circumstances and precedents.

Walter Mondale’s Final Honors

Walter Mondale's final resting place will likely be in Minnesota, where his wife and daughter have previously passed away. Despite the high respects afforded to his late wife Marian and his daughter Karen, there may not be many attendees at his funeral.

President and Mrs. Carter, friends and former colleagues of Walter Mondale, may or may not attend due to their advanced age and frail health. At 90 years old, they may not be in the best condition to travel and participate in the funeral.

While a state funeral for Walter Mondale is improbable, his legacy will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated through various avenues, such as public memorials and tributes.