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Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed that flags on state property be flown at full staff on January 20 to mark President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, a decision bypassing the national 30-day mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter. The move has ignited intense debate on social media, with responses ranging from support to sharp criticism.
President Joe Biden had previously ordered flags across the country to be lowered to half-staff on December 29 following Carter’s death, in accordance with U.S. Code guidelines that honor deceased former presidents. While federal and military properties must comply with presidential proclamations, state properties are not legally bound, leaving Abbott free to chart a different course.
“While we honor the service of a former President, we must also celebrate the service of an incoming President and the bright future ahead for the United States of America,” Abbott said in his announcement.
The directive applies to flags at the Texas Capitol and other state-owned buildings, highlighting a key distinction between federal flag orders and state-level discretion. According to U.S. Code, flags should be flown at half-staff for 30 days to honor a former president, but enforcement mechanisms are absent for state properties.
The governor’s decision has stirred significant reaction online. On X (formerly Twitter), Abbott’s post announcing the directive garnered thousands of replies. Supporters praised Abbott for focusing on the incoming administration and expressed excitement for Trump’s return to the presidency. Critics accused Abbott of politicizing the decision and dishonoring the legacy of Carter, who was celebrated for his post-presidency humanitarian efforts.
One user wrote, “This is a disgrace to President Carter’s memory. Respect for the office should extend across party lines.” Another countered, “Abbott is celebrating the future. President Carter would’ve understood the need to move forward.”
While the debate rages, the directive highlights a longstanding tension between federal tradition and state autonomy regarding flag protocols. Section 4 of the U.S. Code mandates flag-lowering practices for national mourning but provides no penalties for noncompliance, allowing governors to exercise discretion.
Abbott’s statement underscores a dual sentiment: respecting Carter’s service while celebrating what he called “a bright future ahead for the United States.” Whether his decision fosters unity or deepens division remains a subject of national conversation.
