Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued an order to raise flags to full-staff on January 20, marking a departure from the national mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter.
This decision comes as the nation observes 30 days of mourning following Carter’s death on December 29, 2024, during which flags are typically flown at half-staff.
The national mourning period was initiated by President Joe Biden, who issued a directive for flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Carter, the 39th President of the United States, who passed away at the age of 100.
Carter was remembered for his focus on human rights and diplomacy during his presidency from 1977 to 1981.
Governor Abbott’s decision to raise the flags at the Texas Capitol and state buildings across the state coincides with the inauguration of President Donald Trump.
While President Biden’s order applies to all federal buildings and grounds, Abbott’s directive reflects the autonomy of state governors in determining flag protocols within their states.
This decision is in contrast to the federal guidelines, which typically require flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days following the death of a president or former president.
Abbott’s move has sparked discussion on the flexibility of flag etiquette during national mourning periods, with some states adhering to the federal directive while others, like Texas, make adjustments based on local discretion.
The practice of flying flags at half-staff is a traditional symbol of mourning and respect for the contributions of public figures.
As the mourning for Carter continues, the situation underscores the varying approaches to flag protocols and the balance between federal and state traditions in honoring national figures.