Nassau County, New York, County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican, allegedly refused to lower American flags to half-staff in tribute to former President Jimmy Carter on county buildings, igniting anger, Newsweek reported.
Carter died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, after which President Joe Biden directed all American flags on public buildings to fly at half-staff for 30 days. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul called for statewide compliance with the order.
But flags on Nassau County buildings remained full-staff, a spokesperson for Blakeman confirmed to Newsday.
Biden's directive aligns with a 1954 proclamation by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which mandates that upon the death of a president or former president, flags should be flown at half-staff for 30 days at federal government buildings, their grounds, U.S. embassies, military installations, vessels, and other facilities abroad.
The situation came to public attention after Nassau County Democrat Seth Koslow requested that the flags be lowered. According to Newsday, Blakeman "rebuffed" his request.
The Nassau County Democratic Party released a statement criticizing the apparent decision, highlighting Carter's legacy as a "dedicated public servant and humanitarian."
"Even former President Donald Trump issued a heartfelt statement honoring Carter's legacy, writing, 'While I strongly disagreed with him philosophically and politically, I also realized that he truly loved and respected our Country, and all it stands for. He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that I give him my highest respect. He was a truly good man and, of course, will be greatly missed," the statement read.
Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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