New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill is facing criticism as state flag records show flags at full-staff, contrary to a White House directive to lower U.S. flags nationwide in memory of late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., until Saturday evening.
“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,” New Jersey state Sen. Joe Pennacchio, R-Boonton, told Fox News Digital Thursday.
He officially asked the governor to lower the flags earlier this week following Graham’s passing.
A source from Trenton confirmed that flags at the Capitol remained at full-staff as of midday Thursday. The New Jersey Department of State website also showed “all flags full-staff” on Thursday.
Sherrill’s office did not respond to several requests for comment, making her one of the few Democratic state leaders not to comply with the White House’s order.
Neighboring governors, including Delaware’s Matt Meyer and Pennsylvania’s Josh Shapiro, reportedly complied with the order, as did leaders from California, Colorado, and Maryland.
Meanwhile, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Virginia’s Gov. Abigail Spanberger did not issue half-staff orders as both states’ flags remained at “full-staff” as of Thursday. Fox News Digital reached out to both governors for comment.
Pennacchio shared with Fox News Digital that, after Sherrill’s inaction regarding the flags, he submitted a formal request.
Pennacchio emphasized that honoring individuals like Graham should transcend political divides, highlighting Graham’s reputation as a respected public figure, his service in the US Air Force, and his bipartisan approach, particularly in Supreme Court Justice confirmations.
“My request was very respectful. It wasn’t partisan at all,” he stated, noting Sherrill is also a veteran.
Pennacchio recalled Graham’s belief in setting aside politics during significant moments, mentioning Graham’s rationale for supporting judicial nominees based on qualifications rather than party affiliation.
Sherrill, when she served in Congress, represented Pennacchio’s state Senate district. He expressed hope for bipartisanship with Sherrill, as their offices previously collaborated effectively on constituent services.
Sherrill’s choice not to lower flags contrasts with fellow New Jersey Democrat, Sen. Cory Booker, who recorded a video tribute to Graham.
In his video, Booker shared how, as a freshman senator, he was advised by Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., to collaborate with Graham on criminal justice reform.
Booker recounted approaching Graham, who humorously advised him to wait until after his South Carolina primary election to discuss working together.
Following the election, Booker said Graham kept his promise and actively participated in the successful passage of the First Step Act.
Booker did not comment on this story, but Pennacchio acknowledged Booker’s commendable gesture.
“Senator Booker is as partisan as they come, but he did the right thing and put his partisanship aside,” Pennacchio remarked. “The death of one diminishes a little bit of all of us.”
Another New Jersey politician who spoke out after Graham’s death was Rep. Christopher Smith, a Republican representing the Jersey Shore and New Jersey’s longest-serving congressman.
“Lindsey Graham was an indefatigable and courageous fighter for the right to life, human rights, liberty and freedom,” Smith commented earlier this week.
“He was articulate and persuasive and brought both incisive candor and humor to debate. He was a national treasure and will be deeply missed. My wife, Marie, and I offer our deepest condolences to his family.”
Fox News Digital also contacted Booker’s counterpart, Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., for comments on the matter.
“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,” Pennacchio stated.
