Why are flags at half-staff today in most US states? Details here

Flags across several US states, including Delaware, Texas, and Florida, fly at half-staff to honor late former Vice President Dick Cheney, 84.

Updated on: Nov 10, 2025, 05:15:31 IST

By Shamik Banerjee

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The United States is mourning the death of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who died on November 3 at the age of 84. Over the last two days, flags have been lowered to half-mast in several states honor the legacy of Cheney, who, under President George Bush, oversaw major events like the 9/11, the Iraq and the Afghanistan war.

The flag above the White House flies at half-staff after former US Vice President Dick Cheney died on November 4. (AFP)

On Thursday, November 6, as well, flags were at half-staff, as the protocol states that flags be flown at half-staff for 10 days in the event a former Vice President of the United States dies. Thus, on Thursday, states such as Delaware, Texas, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, South Dakota lowered the flags in state buildings.

On the day of Dick Cheney's death, flags were lowered to half-staff at the White House. Though a statement from Donald Trump on Cheney's death did not come. Notably, the POTUS has not ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across the US. Most states that did it did so of their own accord.

Flags Lowered In Delaware

Governor Matt Meyer of Delaware ordered on November 4 that all flags at state buildings and facilities be flown at half-staff in honor of Dick Cheney. He described Cheney as a "shining beacon on the hill.”

Also read: US Supreme Court sceptical of Trump tariffs: What can the US president do?

Iowa Flags Lowered Despite No Governor Order

In Iowa, flags were lowered to half-staff despite there being no order to do so from Governor Kim Reynolds. Reynolds, however, sent out a message on Cheney's death, remembering him as "a remarkable statesman."

Texas Lowers Flag Amid Trump's Silence

In Texas, flags were lowered, local newspaper The Austin American-Statesman reported. Though there were no statements from the authorities in the state.

Additionally, despite there being no order from the governor, flags were lowered in some federal buildings in Florida, as well.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shamik Banerjee
Shamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.Read More

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