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Trump Wanting U.S. Flags to Fly Full-Staff During His Inauguration Shouldn’t Be a Big Deal

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President-elect Donald Trump's decision to fly U.S. flags at full-staff during his upcoming inauguration has sparked nationwide debate. According to tradition, flags should remain at half-staff for 30 days to honor former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29. Despite this, Trump, who had often criticized Carter during his campaign but later praised him after his death, has chosen to defy the order. At his Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, U.S. flags were raised just days after Carter's funeral, ignoring President Joe Biden's directive.
Texas Also Orders U.S. Flags Flown to Full-Staff on January 20. Will Other States Follow?
In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has also ordered U.S. flags to be raised to full-staff on January 20, the day of Trump's inauguration. Abbott defended this decision by stating, “While we honor the service of a former President, we must also celebrate the incoming President and the bright future ahead.” This move signals a broader trend among Republican-led states to align with Trump's stance on symbolic national displays.
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has yet to take similar action. This prompted speculation about whether other states will follow Texas's lead. Political science experts like Brandon Rottinghaus suggest that while states typically adhere to federal flag protocols, governors retain discretion over state-controlled facilities. This flexibility has led to a visible divide over Carter's legacy and Trump’s inauguration. Critics argue that raising flags during a national mourning period diminishes the former president’s contributions and disrespects his legacy. Conversely, supporters view the move as a necessary step to focus on America's future and the new leadership under a new President.
Public and Political Reactions to Flag Protocol Defiance
Reactions to Trump's decision have been polarizing. Some Trump supporters went on social media to hail the move as a “celebration of America’s bright future.” Other netizens criticized it as a breach of respect for a former president. Ordinary citizens have also weighed in. Lisa Perkins, a Florida resident, shared, “Breaking tradition for political reasons feels inappropriate, especially for someone as honorable as Carter.” In contrast, Texas resident Bob Smith contended, “The focus should be on our nation’s future, not just the past.” These conflicting views underscore the deeper political and cultural divides shaping public opinion.
Prominent Democrats like former President Barack Obama and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi voiced their disappointment. They emphasized the importance of tradition in uniting the nation. In particular, Pelosi remarked that “Ignoring this protocol risks further dividing our country.” On the other hand, Republican leaders, including Senator Lindsey Graham, defended Trump’s stance. Graham argued, “This decision celebrates the peaceful transition of power and does not diminish Carter’s legacy.”
This Isn’t New: Historical Instances of Breaking Flag Protocol
Throughout U.S. history, there have been instances where flag protocol was disregarded, sparking debate and controversy. One notable example occurred in 1969 when President Richard Nixon ordered flags to be flown at full-staff after the death of former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, despite protocol calling for half-staff. Nixon cited the need to project strength during the Vietnam War.
Another example was after the 9/11 attacks in 2001. Some states chose to bring flags to full-staff earlier than the prescribed mourning period to symbolize resilience and recovery. This decision stirred mixed reactions, as critics argued it diminished the gravity of the tragedy.
In 2018, after the passing of Senator John McCain, flags at the White House were raised to full-staff just two days after being lowered, despite widespread public expectation for an extended mourning period. This move led to bipartisan criticism, as many viewed it as a breach of respect for McCain’s service and sacrifice.
Should Tradition Bend to Political Symbolism?
The U.S. Flag Code provides guidelines for displaying the national flag, but its enforcement is largely symbolic. This lack of strict enforcement has led to debates about whether protocols should evolve to reflect contemporary political dynamics. While some view Trump's decision as disrespectful, others see it as a practical assertion of his vision for America.
Ultimately, this incident highlights the ongoing tension between respecting past leaders and embracing future ones. Whether Trump’s choice resonates with Americans or further polarizes them remains a critical question. The event prompts reflection on what unites or divides the country during moments of transition.
Considering former President Jimmy Carter’s current mourning period, should U.S. flags be flown at full-staff or half-staff during Trump's inauguration? Tell us what you think!


3 Comments
Flags can be raised for the inauguration and then after all is said and done, they can be lowered again. It has been done in the past, it should be done for our President Trump.
They can always return the flag at half mass after 3-day to honor our new President into the white house.
we must respect President Jimmy Carters death and fly flags at half staff. Donald Trump does not get to make up policies to his liking, he of all the soon to be president should show respect for his predecessor. So once again The convicted president elect chooses to defy US Flag codes to make it about Donald J. Trump , the person you people are about to call President of The USA i think half staff is the correct policy to respect for the fallen. How did you vote for a convicted felon to be your president ?