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In the wake of former President Jimmy Carter’s passing at age 100 in his Georgia home, an unexpected political discussion has emerged regarding the timing of flags being flown at half-staff during President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration.
Following protocol established in the U.S. flag code, federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels will display flags at half-staff for 30 days to honor the deceased president. This period of national mourning will extend through January 28, 2025, encompassing the January 20 inauguration ceremony.
I may not have agreed with him politically, but I always considered Jimmy Carter to be a decent human being.
RIP Mr. President. Thank you for your service to America. pic.twitter.com/alTlQiZYaj
— Steve Johnson 💎 (@Grizzly_Stevens) December 29, 2024
The timing has sparked reactions from Trump’s political opponents, who view the coincidence as symbolic. Rather than maintaining a respectful tone following Carter’s death, many took to social media to express satisfaction that the traditional sign of mourning would coincide with Trump’s inauguration day.
Social media users posted numerous comments celebrating this timing. Several described it as Carter’s “final act of service” or “final salute” to Trump, while others openly expressed anticipation for photos of the half-staff flags during the inauguration ceremony.
“Thank you for your final act of service, President Carter,” wrote one user, suggesting the timing was intentional rather than coincidental.
In stark contrast to these reactions, Trump responded to Carter’s passing with dignity and respect, despite their different political ideologies.
Jimmy Carter was sworn in as 39th President of the United States on 1/20/77.
His loving wife Rosalynn gazed proudly at Jimmy as he took his oath.
She was with him until she passed 11/19/23. Now they’re reunited.
You don’t have to like Jimmy’s politics to pray for his family. pic.twitter.com/V0Cnv5Pjil
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) December 29, 2024
“I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History.”
“The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans,” he added. “For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude.”
“Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers.”
