PORTLAND, Ore. — Following President Donald Trump’s order to lower all U.S. flags to half-staff in honor of slain conservative activist and podcaster Charlie Kirk, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek confirmed that the state would follow suit. While the decision sparked debate, Kotek defended the symbolism as a rejection of political violence rather than an endorsement of Kirk’s politics.
Presidential Order Extends Nationwide
Trump issued the directive shortly after Kirk’s assassination, requiring flags at all public buildings and grounds to be lowered. As governor, Kotek explained that Oregon protocol is to follow presidential declarations of mourning.
She called Kirk’s killing “inexcusable,” emphasizing that her decision was rooted in principle, not politics.
Critics Question the Honor
The move quickly drew criticism from some Oregon officials and community leaders who questioned whether Kirk’s legacy merited the symbolic gesture.
State Rep. Travis Nelson, the only openly LGBTQ person of color in the legislature, said the tradition of lowering flags should be reserved for presidents, national figures, and dignitaries.
“That honor is reserved for presidents, national heroes and dignitaries,” Nelson said. “If Dick Cheney died tomorrow, I’d be OK with flags being lowered.”
Labor activist and former Portland City Council candidate Jonathan Tasini went further, calling Kotek’s compliance “astonishing” and asking bluntly, “What the actual hell?”
Kotek Frames It as a Stand Against Violence
Despite the backlash, Kotek underscored that the decision transcends political affiliations. “I also think that it’s very important at this time of divisiveness in our country that we focus on what happened, which is political violence,” she said.
“No one should lose their life based on their point of view, and I think it’s important to send a message that we are one country, we are one state. We have to come together. And if it’s symbolic as lowering the flag saying we should all think about what’s going on, then I can support that.”
A Divisive Figure Remembered
Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, had become one of the most prominent and polarizing conservative voices in the nation before his assassination. While his critics often clashed with his rhetoric and activism, supporters regarded him as a defender of free speech and traditional values.
His death has reignited conversations about the rise of politically motivated violence and the extent to which national leaders should honor controversial figures.
Protocol on Flag Lowering
While some governors and officials raised concerns, the ultimate decision rests with the president. Under federal law, the President of the United States holds full discretion to determine when flags are lowered across the country. Governors typically follow suit within their states.
For Kotek, the debate was not about Kirk’s political record but about responding to the broader moment. “It’s about unity in the face of violence,” she stressed.
Broader National Conversation
The controversy in Oregon reflects a larger national divide over how the country should respond to Kirk’s assassination. For some, lowering the flag symbolizes respect for human life and a condemnation of political violence. For others, it risks elevating a figure whose politics were seen as deeply divisive.
Still, with the president’s directive in place, flags across the nation—including Oregon—will remain at half-staff in Kirk’s memory, at least temporarily.
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