You’re driving to work or maybe just walking the dog when you see it. That stars-and-stripes banner is sitting halfway down the pole again. It’s a somber sight. Instantly, your brain goes to the worst-case scenario. Did a national tragedy happen? Is there a major figure we just lost? Honestly, the reason why is flags at half staff today on Saturday, January 17, 2026, depends entirely on where you’re standing, but it mostly centers on honoring three specific public servants who left a lasting mark on their communities.
There isn't a single, blanket presidential proclamation covering the entire country today. Instead, we’re seeing a "patchwork" of tributes. Governors in New Jersey, Kansas, and Arizona have issued specific orders.
It's kinda fascinating how these traditions work. While the President handles national orders, Governors have the authority to lower the flags in their states to honor local heroes, veterans, or first responders. Today, that's exactly what is happening.
New Jersey: Honoring Congressman Dick Zimmer
If you’re in the Garden State, the flags are down for Richard Alan "Dick" Zimmer. He was a powerhouse in New Jersey politics for decades. Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 412, which keeps the flags at half-staff until sunset today, January 17.
Zimmer was a Yale Law grad who served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. But he wasn’t just a "suit" in D.C. He’s the guy who helped advance Megan’s Law. You've probably heard of it—it’s the legislation that requires community notification when a sex offender moves into a neighborhood. It changed the landscape of child safety in America. He passed away right at the end of 2025, and this weekend is the state’s official way of saying goodbye.
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Kansas: A Local Legend in Lyon County
Way over in Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered flags to be lowered, but specifically in Lyon County. They are honoring Evora Wheeler, the former Mayor of Emporia.
Evora was 92. She didn’t just hold an office; she was basically the heartbeat of that community for more than fifty years. When someone like that passes, it’s a big deal for a town like Emporia. The flags are flying at half-staff from sunup to sundown today to recognize her transition from a dedicated mayor to a community icon.
There is also a second notice in Kansas today for Richard Carlson, another public servant being honored across certain districts. It’s a heavy day for the Sunflower State.
Arizona: The Ongoing Tribute for Mark Brnovich
Down in the Southwest, Arizona is still in a period of mourning. Governor Katie Hobbs ordered flags to half-staff earlier this week following the death of former Attorney General Mark Brnovich.
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Brnovich served two terms and was a very visible figure in Arizona law. Unlike the New Jersey order which ends today, Arizona's flags have been lowered since January 14 "until further notice" or through the day of interment. If you see the flag low in Phoenix or Tucson, that’s why.
Who actually decides when flags go down?
It’s not just a random decision by the guy at the post office. There's a whole set of rules called the U.S. Flag Code.
Basically, the President can order flags down for the whole country. Think 9/11, or the passing of a former President. But the Governor of a state can also do it for a present or former official of that state.
- The President: National mourning.
- The Governor: State or local mourning.
- The Mayor: Sometimes local municipalities do it, but technically, they usually follow the Governor's lead.
People often get confused and think a local flag at half-staff means a national tragedy occurred. That’s usually not the case. Most of the time, it's a "local hero" moment.
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The Etiquette: How to do it right
If you’re a business owner or you have a flagpole at home, you might be wondering if you have to lower yours. Technically, the Flag Code is a set of guidelines, not a law with "flag police" who will arrest you. But for most, it’s a matter of respect.
When you lower a flag to half-staff, you don't just hoist it halfway and stop. You have to briskly hoist it to the very top (the peak) for an instant, and then ceremoniously lower it to the half-staff position. When you take it down at sunset, you do the same thing: hoist it back to the top before lowering it all the way.
Does "Half-Staff" mean exactly the middle?
Not exactly. It just needs to be at least the width of the flag below the top. On most poles, that ends up being about halfway. On some smaller residential poles that are at an angle, you can use a "mourning ribbon." You attach a long black ribbon to the top of the pole. It's a respectful alternative if your pole doesn't have a pulley system.
Actionable Steps for Today
If you see the flags down today and want to stay informed or show respect, here is what you can do:
- Check your State Government website. Most Governors have a "Flag Status" page. This is the only 100% accurate way to know why flags are down in your specific zip code.
- Respect the sunset. If you are flying a flag at half-staff today for Dick Zimmer or Evora Wheeler, remember that the orders usually expire at sunset. Return your flag to full-staff tomorrow morning unless a new order is issued.
- Use a Mourning Ribbon. If you have a wall-mounted flag and want to participate in the tribute for Mark Brnovich or the others, buy a simple black crepe streamer. It’s the proper way to signal mourning on poles where the flag can't be lowered.
Understanding why is flags at half staff today is about more than just trivia; it's about acknowledging the people who spent their lives trying to make their corners of the world a little better. Whether it's a Congressman in New Jersey or a Mayor in Kansas, the lowered flag is a silent "thank you" from the public.