While I don't like Carter's politics or attitude, I still believe he is a man who believes in God. On the other hand, don't get me started on Clinton...I often imagine what I'd do if ever introduced to him. :)
I think Clinton just wants to feel like he's "part of it" and important enough to be able to speak. This will be a big funeral and MANY will be watching!
He doesn't realize how irrelevant he has become, how many people dislike him and his time is over. He wants to be part of history again, so to speak. He proably thinks if he gives a great eulogy people will forgive and forget. He really does think the world revolves around him, hence his reaction.
I have family members like your brother. I'm sorry that happened.
I find so sad all of the posturing by certain of the Democratic persuasion whining that they haven't been invited to speak. What a bunch of phonies. Another point might be that even IF Clinton really did care and really did just want to say a few kind words about his "friend" Mr. Reagan, nobody would believe him. He's proved himself to be rabid for the camera & spotlight above all other considerations, so it wouldn't have any impact except of the very negative variety, and it's too late to change all that now. Clinton should have thought about that years ago. I hope Nancy doesn't cave. The former President is gone now. Let she be the one to decide who should speak at the podium. Enough of all this nonsense. Reagan was a decent man to be spoken of by other decent men. Clinton, Kennedy, Carter (the man who thinks Castro is an OK guy), et al just don't cut the mustard.
I wonder what the Toon said about President Reagan in his bio?
When my son and daughter were in the seventh and eighth grades, their classes went to D.C. and toured the White House. My son had strict instructions in the event they happened across the president during the tour. He was to grab his sister's hand, stand between she and Clinton, and tell the man to stay away from his sister. To this day, I think they both shudder when they see him on tv.