Really? Half-mast flags during my inauguration? That’s how former President Donald Trump reacted when he learned that American flags might fly at half-mast on January 20 to honor the late President Jimmy Carter. And he wasn’t shy about sharing his frustration.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump accused Democrats of being “giddy” about the optics. “They’re thrilled about the idea of our magnificent American flag being at half-mast during my inauguration,” he wrote, adding, “They think it’s great because they don’t truly love our country.”
Trump expressed skepticism over whether this unprecedented scenario would actually happen. “Because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the flag may, for the first time ever during a presidential inauguration, be lowered. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it,” he said. “Let’s see how it plays out.”
The Policy Behind the Controversy
Why the flags at half-mast? A tradition established in 1954 under President Dwight Eisenhower mandates a 30-day mourning period when a former president passes away. This includes lowering flags on federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels. So, unless something changes, the timing means the flags will still be lowered during Trump’s inauguration.
However, during a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that no changes to the policy were being considered.
A History of Tension
It’s no secret that Jimmy Carter and Donald Trump didn’t see eye to eye. Carter was openly critical of Trump’s presidency, once describing the country as “worse” under his leadership. He also supported all three of Trump’s Democratic challengers.
Trump, for his part, wasn’t exactly gracious in return. Earlier this year, on Carter’s 100th birthday, Trump referred to him as the “second-worst president”—ranking him just above Joe Biden.
Still, despite their political clashes, Trump has confirmed that he will attend Carter’s funeral.
What’s Next?
As inauguration day approaches, this unexpected overlap between mourning a former president and celebrating a new one has sparked plenty of chatter. Whether the flags will indeed remain at half-mast is yet to be seen, but Trump’s reaction has already added fuel to the political fire.
What’s your take on this? Should tradition prevail, or is it time for an exception? Let’s hear your thoughts!
