In a move counter to President Biden's national directive, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced that all flags at the Texas Capitol and state office buildings will be raised to full-staff on January 20th for the inauguration of Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States. This decision comes despite the ongoing 30-day mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter, during which flags are to be flown at half-staff nationwide.

Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of honoring both the transition of presidential power and the memory of former President Carter. He stated that while the nation mourns the loss of a former leader, it's equally vital to celebrate the incoming president and the future of the country. He expressed his belief that raising the flags to full-staff for the inauguration signifies the unity and renewal of American leadership.

An advisor to Governor Abbott confirmed that flags will return to half-staff on January 21st, following the inauguration. Abbott reiterated Texas's shared mourning with the nation for former President Carter, acknowledging his significant and enduring legacy.

The U.S. flag code stipulates a 30-day half-staff period for deceased current or former presidents at all federal buildings, military installations, and U.S. embassies worldwide. This practice extends to state flags due to the protocol that no flag should be flown higher than the American flag on the same or adjacent poles. However, adherence to the U.S. flag code is not mandatory, leaving open the possibility of a presidential override.

Earlier this month, Donald Trump expressed his disapproval of flags being flown at half-staff during his inauguration, calling it a point of celebration for Democrats and unrepresentative of the American spirit. He questioned the appropriateness of the gesture and hinted at potential action upon assuming office. Reports indicate that the flag at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort was observed at full height after initially being lowered to half-staff following President Carter's passing.