Donald Trump faces first disappointment on inauguration day

US President-elect Donald Trump expressed concern that national flags would remain at half-mast on his inauguration day, scheduled for 20 January, due to the mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter. This was reported by Reuters.

By order of incumbent President Joe Biden, flags across the country remain at half-mast in respect for Jimmy Carter, who died on 29 December 2024. According to tradition, the mourning period lasts 30 days, which coincides with the date of Trump's inauguration.

Jimmy Carter, who led the US from 1977 to 1981, entered history as the country's longest-living president. He died at the age of 99.

In a post on the Truth Social platform, Trump expressed regret over the situation.

"Democrats are thrilled that our great American flag will be at half-mast on my inauguration day. They think it's beautiful, because they don't actually love our country and only care about their own interests," he stated. ("Democrats are thrilled that our great American flag will be at half-mast on my inauguration day. They think it's beautiful, because they don't actually love our country and only care about their own interests," he stated.)

Trump also emphasised that this is an unprecedented case in US history where flags will be in mourning during a new president's assumption of office.

"No American wants to see this, and it is unlikely that anyone will be happy about it. We will see how it goes," he added. ("No American wants to see this, and it is unlikely that anyone will be happy about it. We will see how it goes," he added.)

In response to these statements, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that there are no plans to reconsider the decision regarding the mourning period.