Why are flags at half-staff in Florida?

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Flags flew at half-staff across the state of Florida on Thursday.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered flags at half-staff in memory of former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham.

Former Florida Gov. Bob Graham dies

“Governor Graham exemplified a commitment to public service and to bettering the State of Florida,” Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement. “As a mark of respect for Governor Graham, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the State of Florida from sunrise to sunset, beginning (Thursday), April 18, 2024, until sunset on the date of internment.”

Graham served in both chambers of the Florida legislature before becoming governor in 1978. He spent 18 years in the U.S. Senate before retiring in 2005.

A University of Florida alum, Graham established the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at his alma mater to train future political leaders. Throughout his career and in the years that followed, Graham championed civic participation, public education and environmental conservation.

Graham’s family announced his death on Tuesday. He was 87 years old.

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