TALLAHASSEE — When President-elect Donald Trump is inaugurated next week, flags across Florida will be returned to full-staff after a directive from Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Flags across the U.S. are currently at half-staff in recognition of the death of former President Jimmy Carter. DeSantis’ move to briefly raise the flags on Jan. 20 at the Florida Capitol and other state buildings mirrors decisions made by governors in several other states following complaints from Trump.
“On this unique occasion, where we simultaneously celebrate the service of an incoming president and commend the service of a former president, our nation’s flag will be prominently displayed at full-staff to honor the tradition of our founding fathers and the sacrifices made by those who have served to ensure the torch of liberty continues to burn strong,” DeSantis said in his memorandum.
Flags in Florida will be returned to half-staff the next day, Jan. 21.
Governors of Alabama, Tennessee and Texas already issued similar proclamations for their states.
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson also on Tuesday ordered flags at the U.S. Capitol to be raised for the inauguration.
Trump has previously expressed frustration that flags would be at half-staff when he took the oath of office.
“The Democrats are all ‘giddy’” about the notion that flags will be lowered on Inauguration Day, Trump wrote Jan. 3 on social media.
Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
Romy Ellenbogen is a Tallahassee correspondent, covering state government with a focus on criminal justice and health. Reach her at rellenbogen@tampabay.com.
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