US flags will be flown at half-staff during Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, as part of a 30-day mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter, who died on December 29, 2024, at the age of 10013. This decision, made by President Joe Biden in accordance with the US flag code, has sparked controversy and criticism from President-elect Trump.
Key Points:
- President Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days following Carter’s death, as is customary for honoring deceased presidents7.
- The mourning period overlaps with Trump’s inauguration, scheduled for January 20, 20253.
- Trump expressed displeasure on social media, claiming that “nobody wants to see this” and suggesting that Democrats are “giddy” about the situation48.
- The White House has refused to reconsider the decision, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre firmly stating “no” when asked about changing the order1.
Historical Context:
Contrary to Trump’s claim, this is not the first time flags have been at half-staff during a presidential inauguration. A similar situation occurred during Richard Nixon’s second inauguration in 1973, when flags were lowered to honor former President Harry S. Truman, who had died the previous month15.
Protocol and Authority:
The US flag code dictates that flags should be flown at half-staff for 30 days following the death of a current or former president3. Only the sitting president has the authority to issue or change such orders, meaning Trump cannot alter the directive until after he takes office4.The controversy surrounding this decision highlights the intersection of tradition, protocol, and political tensions in the United States.