New York, New Jersey Defy Trump Flag Half-Staff Order for Charlie Kirk

Following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, President Donald Trump issued a directive ordering U.S. flags nationwide to be lowered to half-staff in his honor. While federal buildings, including the White House, complied promptly, several Democratic-led states and localities, notably New York, New Jersey, and Los Angeles, refused to lower their flags, citing state protocols or political considerations. Bergen County, New Jersey, faced significant backlash for maintaining flags at full staff, with officials stating they were following state guidance and condemning political violence in all forms. Conservative critics accused these jurisdictions of defying presidential authority and politicizing grief, though experts clarified that the president's flag order applies only to federal properties, leaving states and local governments free to decide. Additionally, some Democratic leaders, like Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, expanded flag-lowering orders to honor other victims of political violence, illustrating differing approaches to the issue. The controversy highlights ongoing political tensions surrounding the legacy and remembrance of Charlie Kirk and the limits of presidential influence over state and local flag protocols.