Donald Trump unleashed criticism over the decision to keep flags at half-staff during his inauguration in memory of former President Jimmy Carter. He accused Democrats of exploiting the tribute to undercut his highly anticipated return to office.
Trump Criticizes Half-Staff Flag Decision Ahead of Inauguration
On Friday, President-elect Donald Trump turned to his Truth Social platform to express his displeasure with the fact that the American flag will be flown at half-staff during his inauguration. This is because the United States is currently in a period of mourning with regard to the passing of former President Jimmy Carter.
In the immediate aftermath of Carter's passing, Trump actually surprised some observers - and annoyed his own supporters - with a heartfelt tribute to the former president, who was controversial in his day but became beloved in his later years for his devotion to charitable causes around the world. Carter was 100 years old at the time of his death.
Trump Surprises Supporters With Heartfelt Carter Tribute
"Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," he remarked.
Today, on the other hand, he seems irritated by the possibility that the tributes to him could cast a shadow on his own re-entry into power, The Raw Story shares.
Trump Accuses Democrats of Undermining His Inauguration
Trump claimed that many Democrats are "giddy" over the possibility that our majestic American flag will be flown at "half mast" during his inauguration.
"They think it's so great, and are so happy about it because, in actuality, they don't love our Country, they only think about themselves. Look at what they've done to our once GREAT America over the past four years - It's a total mess!" he added.
It is possible that the flag will be flown at half-mast at the inaugural ceremony of a future president for the very first time ever, as a result of the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, he continued.
White House Rejects Trump's Flag Protocol Criticism
Karine Jean-Pierre, the press secretary for the White House, made it quite plain this afternoon that the flag will not be lowered to half-staff during the inauguration period only for the purpose of satisfying Trump's requests.
Business Times has reached out to Donald Trump for comments.
