In a display of frustration, President-elect Donald Trump has publicly criticized the decision to fly the American flag at half-staff during his upcoming inauguration on January 20, 2025. The flags were lowered to honor the late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, 2024, leading to a customary 30-day mourning period where flags are flown at half-staff.
Trump, known for his focus on optics and public image, took to Truth Social to vent his irritation. “The Democrats are all ‘giddy’ about our magnificent American Flag potentially being at ‘half mast’ during my Inauguration,” he wrote, misusing the term “half mast,” which typically refers to nautical contexts. He continued, “They think it’s so great, and are so happy about it because, in actuality, they don’t love our Country, they only think about themselves.”
His comments come against the backdrop of a White House proclamation by President Joe Biden, ordering flags to be lowered in tribute to Carter until January 28, 2025, which encompasses Trump’s inauguration day. Biden’s directive is in line with the U.S. flag code, which mandates that flags be flown at half-staff for 30 days following the death of a current or former president.
The reaction to Trump’s statements has been swift and critical. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre succinctly dismissed any possibility of reversing the decision, stating “No” when asked if Biden would consider changing the flag protocol for the inauguration.
This controversy has reignited discussions about political decorum and the respect due to former leaders, with many viewing Trump’s comments as lacking the solemnity expected during a national period of mourning. Some online commentators and political analysts have labeled his remarks as indicative of his ongoing political divisiveness, focusing more on personal grievances than national unity in moments of tribute.
Despite Trump’s protests, the flags will remain at half-staff during the inauguration, symbolizing the nation’s respect for Carter’s legacy. Trump, who has announced his attendance at Carter’s state funeral, has previously expressed respect for Carter, describing him as a “truly good man” who will be missed. However, this latest outburst suggests a clash between personal political narratives and traditional honors for former presidents.
This incident has once again placed Trump’s personal feelings and political rhetoric at the center of national attention, even as the country prepares for a ceremonial transition of power.
