Why are flags at half-staff in Georgia today? Trump honors senator
President Donald Trump and politicians around the world are honoring Senator Lindsey Graham after his unexpected passing this weekend.
Graham served in the United States Senate for the state of South Carolina from 2003 until his death on July 11. He was 71 years old.
Graham's cause of death was later revealed as an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Why are flags at half-staff?
On July 12, Trump ordered all American flags to be flown at half-staff in all states until 6 p.m. on July 18 to honor Graham. This includes flags in Georgia at government buildings and military grounds. Private citizens are not required to lower their flags, but it is generally accepted to do so.
"In honor of the remarkable life and achievements of Senator Lindsey Graham, a dear friend of mine, and a truly great man, who achieved so much for our Country, and his beloved Home State of South Carolina, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Saturday evening at 6 P.M. GOD BLESS YOU LINDSEY!" Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.
In a previous post, Trump said Graham was "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known" and that he "was always working, and was a true American Patriot."
Graham was a staunch Republican and strong MAGA supporter, as well as an ally to the president.
Why do Americans lower their flags?
Lowering the flag is a typical action for representing a country in mourning.
According to federal law, flags must be lowered to half-staff for at least the day of and day after a member of Congress' death. However, that period is commonly extended by the president.
For Graham's death, the flags will be lowered for seven days.
Flags can also be lowered for the death of other significant figures or events. For example, the flags are always lowered on Sept. 11, Memorial Day and other days of remembrance. Trump also ordered the flags lowered following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a well-known political figure who was not an elected official.
Irene Wright covers Georgia as the Atlanta Connect reporter with USA TODAY's Deep South Connect team. Find her on X @IreneEWright or email her at ismith@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why are flags at half-staff in Georgia today? Trump honors senator
Reporting by Irene Wright, USA TODAY / USA TODAY
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This story was originally published July 13, 2026 at 10:42 AM.