US Flag to Fly at Half-Staff During Trump’s Inauguration Ceremony: Here's Why

On January 20, Donald Trump will be sworn in as the new President of the United States. However, the national flag will remain at half-staff as former President Jimmy Carter died at the age of 100. Current President Joe Biden has announced a 30-day mourning period, and during this time, flags across the country will be kept lowered according to the U.S. Flag Code.
Why the Flag is Lowered
The U.S. Flag Code stipulates that the flag is lowered for 30 days in recognition of the death of a sitting or former president. Flags are lowered for other officials as well, including vice presidents, Supreme Court justices, and members of Congress, although this usually occurs for less time. Additionally, flags are sometimes lowered when there are national tragedies or memorial observances.
Flag Lowering Controversy
Donald Trump has also complained that the flag should not be flown at half-staff during his inauguration, saying that no one would want to see the flag lowered on such an important day. The Flag Code does suggest a 30-day period of mourning, but it is not required. Once sworn into office, Trump could, in theory, rescind the order if he wants.
Length of the Lowered Flag
The national flag will remain at half-staff until January 28, after the 30-day mourning period for Jimmy Carter. This means that the flag will be lowered during Trump's inauguration and throughout his first week as president.
Who Decides to Lower the Flag?
The President, state governors, and the Mayor of the District of Columbia are authorized to order the lowering of the flag. It is up to these officials, however, to make the decision whether or not to follow the guidelines established by the Flag Code.