New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that flags in the state will fly at full-staff on Monday for the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, despite ongoing national mourning for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024.
In a statement, Hochul emphasized the importance of this day for all Americans. “Tomorrow, we are all Americans as we observe the centuries-old traditions of Inauguration Day,” she said. She added that the flags would return to half-staff on January 21 to remember President Carter.
The governor’s decision comes amidst a national order from President Biden for flags at public buildings to be flown at half-staff for 30 days in honor of Carter’s death, which coincides with Trump’s inauguration day.
Hochul is not alone in her decision. Several Democratic governors, including those from California, Colorado, and Washington, have also directed flags to be raised for Trump’s inauguration before the mourning period concludes on January 28.
Biden’s directive calls for the U.S. flag to be displayed at half-staff across government sites, military posts, and naval stations during this time of remembrance. This historic tradition is observed when a former president passes away.
In response to the unfolding events, nearly 30 states are set to raise their flags for Trump’s inauguration. This includes various Republican governors, such as Ron DeSantis from Florida and Greg Abbott from Texas, demonstrating a unified sign of respect for this pivotal moment in American history.
Trump himself addressed the situation, expressing concerns over the half-staff flags during his inauguration. He criticized Democrats, saying they were overly pleased with the idea of flags being lowered. He called on Americans to reflect on the state of the country, asserting that the events leading up to the inauguration have put America in a difficult position.
While the nation mourns President Carter, the inauguration of President-elect Trump continues to hold significant meaning for many, representing a turning point and a celebration of the American democratic process.
