Hochul Refuses to Lower Flags for Charlie Kirk Despite Trump Order

New York Governor Kathy Hochul refused to follow a federal directive to lower flags in honor of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, drawing backlash from critics who accused them of defying President Trump.

On Wednesday, Trump signed a proclamation directing that U.S. flags nationwide be lowered through Sunday evening, calling Kirk “a truly Great American Patriot.” Flags at the White House and other federal properties came down within hours. But New York left flags untouched.

State officials in Albany said New York intends to lower flags on the day of Kirk’s funeral, citing past practice with other public figures such as Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Corey Comperatore, the Pennsylvania firefighter killed at a Trump rally last year.

The decision angered conservatives, who argued that state leaders were dismissing the president’s directive.

Kirk, 32, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot Tuesday while speaking at Utah Valley University. His death has sparked tributes from allies as well as political battles over how state governments have responded.

Police have identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the suspected gunman and federal agents have searched both his apartment and his family home in Utah as the investigation continues.

Hochul Refuses to Lower Flags for Charlie Kirk Despite Trump Order