When it comes to dramatic entrances, Donald Trump knows how to keep the spotlight on himself. But this time, a somber national tradition and a departed predecessor are stealing the show—and the former president isn’t happy about it.
A Mourning Tradition Meets Trump’s Inauguration
Former President Jimmy Carter, a beloved figure in American politics, passed away last week at the age of 100. As is customary, the nation is honoring him with a 30-day period of mourning, during which flags across federal buildings, naval ships, and government grounds will fly at half-mast.
This respectful gesture is a time-honored tradition, extended to all former and sitting presidents. It’s a way of uniting the country in reflection and respect. But for President-elect Donald Trump, this custom has thrown a wrench into his plans for a picture-perfect inauguration.
Trump’s Truth Social Outburst
Taking to Truth Social—his go-to platform for airing grievances—Trump expressed his dissatisfaction:
“Because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the Flag may, for the first time ever during an Inauguration of a future President, be at half mast. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Let’s see how it plays out. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Trump didn’t stop there. He accused Democrats of being “giddy” over the half-mast flag situation, claiming their joy stemmed from a lack of patriotism.
“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,” he added, leaving no room for subtlety.
Breaking Tradition? Not Happening
When asked if the White House might consider raising the flags for Trump’s inauguration, Press Secretary Karinne Jean-Pierre shut it down with a firm “No.” Protocol is protocol, and even Trump’s penchant for bending the rules won’t change that.
Trump’s Love for Spectacle
This isn’t Trump’s first inauguration drama. Who could forget the infamous 2017 attendance debacle? Trump claimed his inauguration drew “the largest crowd in American history.” Spoiler alert: It didn’t. Estimates placed the crowd at 300,000 to 600,000—far short of Barack Obama’s record-breaking 1.8 million attendees in 2009.
Still, Trump insisted, “It looked like a million and a half people.” Facts? Optional.
Carter’s Last Word
Ironically, former President Carter—who once called Trump a “disaster”—has managed to make an impact from beyond the grave. While Carter’s legacy of humility and service is celebrated, his passing has unintentionally added a layer of drama to Trump’s big day.
Carter’s funeral is scheduled for Thursday at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., and Trump is expected to attend. Will the flags overshadow the fanfare? Stay tuned—if there’s one thing Trump guarantees, it’s a headline-worthy moment.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, the universe has a way of humbling even the loudest voices. As the nation honors Jimmy Carter, perhaps there’s a lesson in the quiet dignity of service—a stark contrast to the spectacle-driven politics of today.
