President Trump Honors Senator Lindsey Graham
President Donald Trump expressed his condolences for Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who passed away recently, calling him a “great person” and “a great statesman.” In tribute, Trump announced that flags would be flown at half-staff until Saturday night in honor of Graham.
Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill expressed anger after reports showed the state flag at full mast, despite the White House’s directive for all U.S. flags to be lowered until Saturday evening in memory of Graham.
This issue seemed particularly political, as New Jersey State Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-Boonton) officially requested Fox News Digital to address the flag situation following Graham’s death earlier in the week.
As of Thursday at noon, sources in Trenton confirmed that flags at the Capitol were still at full staff. The New Jersey Department of State website indicated that “all flags” were in the same position.
Sherrill’s office, which has not responded to requests for comment, appears to be one of the few Democratic administrations disregarding the White House proclamation. However, governors from surrounding states, such as Delaware’s Matt Meyer and Pennsylvania’s Josh Shapiro, did order their flags to be lowered in alignment with the White House directive.
Pennacchio remarked to Fox News Digital that he felt compelled to make the formal request because Sherrill had not taken action to lower the flag, emphasizing that honoring Graham should transcend political lines. He noted Graham’s legacy as a respected public servant and veteran who worked across party lines on significant issues like the confirmation of Supreme Court Justices.
“My request was very respectful. It wasn’t partisan at all,” he said, adding that both he and Sherrill share military backgrounds.
Pennacchio further elaborated on Graham’s bipartisan approach, noting that the senator consistently stressed the importance of evaluating candidates based on merit rather than party affiliation.
Senator Cory Booker, another prominent New Jersey Democrat, took a different approach, offering praise for Graham. In a video, he shared how his freshman experiences with Graham were characterized by advice from colleagues to work collaboratively, especially on criminal justice reform initiatives.
Booker recalled his interactions with Graham, highlighting their camaraderie during crucial legislative efforts, which ultimately led to the passage of significant reforms.
Pennacchio also commended Booker’s bipartisan contribution, saying that Graham’s passing makes everyone feel a little diminished. Other New Jersey representatives, like Republican Congressman Christopher Smith, also spoke out, praising Graham for his courage and advocacy for human rights.
As discussions continue, Pennacchio reiterated that public servants’ legacies should be honored with dignity, calling for New Jersey to adhere to this principle.
