DeSantis orders flags at full-staff for Trump’s inauguration despite 30-day mourning period for Jimmy Carter

Former President Jimmy Carter was not only a man of politics, but also a man of faith. As “MediaBuzz” host Howard Kurtz reminisces on what it was like interviewing and traveling with Carter on ‘The Story with Martha MacCallum,’ it is evident that his faith played a significant role in his life and leadership.

Carter’s passing on December 29 prompted President Biden to order a 30-day mourning period, during which flags at all government and public buildings across the country were to fly at half-staff. This period included Inauguration Day, a tradition that honors the life and service of a former president.

However, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, made the controversial decision to raise flags at state buildings to full-staff for President-elect Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Despite the official order by President Biden, DeSantis justified his decision by stating that it was a unique occasion to celebrate the service of both an incoming president and a former president.

DeSantis was not alone in his decision, as other Republican governors also broke tradition by flying flags at full-staff before the mourning period ended on January 28. This move sparked criticism from former President Trump, who expressed his displeasure on Truth Social, claiming that Democrats were “giddy” about the potential for flags to be displayed at half-staff during his inauguration.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also ordered flags at the U.S. Capitol to be flown at full-staff on Inauguration Day, further emphasizing the divide in opinions regarding flag protocols during such events.

While the controversy surrounding flag protocols continues to unfold, it is clear that honoring the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter remains a priority. His faith, service, and dedication to the country serve as a reminder of the values that should be upheld, even in the midst of political differences.