On January 20, 2025, as the United States prepares to inaugurate Donald Trump as its 47th president, a notable sight will accompany the ceremony—U.S. flags flying at half-staff nationwide. This symbolic gesture, ordered by President Joe Biden, honors the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100 on Sunday.

While this act of national mourning aligns with U.S. flag code traditions, it has sparked frustration from President-elect Trump, who expressed his discontent over the timing. However, the timeline for lowering the flags will remain unchanged until the designated mourning period concludes.

Why Are Flags Lowered?

Flying flags at half-staff is a solemn tradition in the United States, symbolizing national mourning or respect. Under U.S. flag code, flags must be lowered for 30 days to honor the death of a current or former president. This mandate applies to federal government buildings, U.S. embassies, military installations, and vessels worldwide.

In addition to presidents, flags can also be lowered for shorter periods to honor other officials, including vice presidents, Supreme Court justices, and members of Congress. Flags may also be lowered in response to national tragedies or on Memorial Day, when they remain at half-staff until noon.

Importantly, no flag is permitted to fly higher than the American flag on the same pole or in its vicinity. This rule ensures state flags are also lowered during periods of national mourning.

How Long Will Flags Remain at Half-Staff?

President Biden's declaration stipulates that flags will remain at half-staff for 30 days following Carter's death, ending on January 28, 2025. As a result, flags will be at half-staff throughout Trump's inauguration on January 20 and during the first week of his presidency.

Trump’s Response to the Gesture

Donald Trump voiced his dissatisfaction with the timing of the half-staff order via social media, calling it inappropriate and accusing Democrats of being "giddy" over the situation. Trump wrote, "Nobody wants to see this. It can’t make any American pleased. RESTORE AMERICA’S GREATNESS!"

Despite Trump’s objections, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed during a briefing that President Biden would not revise or alter the flag-lowering timeline.

This is not the first time flags have been at half-staff during an inauguration. In January 1973, flags were similarly lowered when Richard Nixon was sworn in for his second term, following the death of former President Harry S. Truman.

Inauguration Day 2025 Schedule

The 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony is set to take place on Monday, January 20, 2025. The official swearing-in will commence at 12 p.m. ET (11 a.m. CT), marking the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term as president.

As the nation transitions leadership on Inauguration Day, the lowered flags will serve as a poignant reminder of the country’s collective respect for a former leader who shaped its history.