Full Breakdown
New Jersey Governor Faces Backlash for Not Lowering Flags After Senator Lindsey Graham’s Death
7/17/2026, 12:56:59 PM
Core Event
Following the sudden death of Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) on July 13, 2026, the White House issued a proclamation directing U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff through Saturday evening. State-flag tracking on New Jersey’s Department of State website showed all state flags remained at full-staff on Thursday, indicating Governor Mikie Sherrill (D) did not issue a lowering order. Neighboring governors—including Matt Meyer of Delaware and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania—as well as leaders in California, Colorado and Maryland complied with the directive. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger likewise left their flags at full-staff.
Background & Context
The White House proclamation is a customary, non-partisan gesture honoring deceased public officials. Historically, state executives follow the federal directive, though they retain discretion. Sherrill, who served as a U.S. Representative for the same district once represented by Sen. Joe Pennacchio (R-Boonton), has not publicly explained the decision; her office declined comment when contacted.
Criticism & Opposition
Republican State Sen. Joe Pennacchio formally requested that Sherrill lower the flags and labeled the inaction “the most political governor I’ve served with in the last 25 years.” He argued that honoring Graham should transcend party lines, noting Graham’s bipartisan record on Supreme Court confirmations. Rep. Christopher Smith (R-NJ) also condemned the omission, praising Graham’s legacy. Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ) was approached for comment but did not respond.
Official Statements & Responses
- New Jersey’s governor’s office offered no statement.
- Gov. Matt Meyer (DE) and Gov. Josh Shapiro (PA) issued half-staff orders.
- Gov. Kathy Hochul (NY) and Gov. Abigail Spanberger (VA) kept flags at full-staff, mirroring New Jersey.
- Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) posted a video tribute to Graham, emphasizing bipartisan respect.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is probably the most political [Trenton administration], and she’s only been there six months — probably the most political governor I’ve served with in the last 25 years,” — Joe Pennacchio, State Senator
- “Senator Booker is as partisan as they come, but he did the right thing and put his partisanship aside,” — Joe Pennacchio, State Senator
- “Lindsey Graham was an indefatigable and courageous fighter for the right to life, human rights, liberty and freedom,” — Christopher Smith, Representative
- “Our nation has long understood that when a public servant passes away after a lifetime of service to the American people, we come together and honor them with dignity and respect. New Jersey should not be the exception,” — Joe Pennacchio, State Senator
