Flags across the U.S. are flying at half-staff to honor former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3, 2025, at age 84. Despite federal protocol, President Donald Trump has not issued an official proclamation, leaving states to lower flags independently.

The absence of a presidential statement underscores the strained relationship between Trump and Cheney, a vocal critic of the former president. Flags are expected to remain lowered until Cheney’s interment on November 14.

While the White House remains silent, governors in Florida, Illinois, and South Carolina have ordered flags lowered in tribute. The gesture reflects Cheney’s legacy, even as his brand of conservatism faded in the Trump era.

Why Are Flags at Half Staff Today? Did Trump Issue a Proclamation for Dick Cheney and How Long Will They Stay Lowered?

Why are flags at half-staff across the U.S. this week?

Flags nationwide are lowered to honor former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3, 2025, at age 84. The half-staff display follows a long-standing tradition to commemorate prominent government officials. Cheney served as Vice President under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009 and held significant roles including Secretary of Defense. The federal government directive applies to all public buildings, military installations, and naval vessels.

Most states, including Florida, Texas, and Iowa, have issued proclamations aligning with federal guidance. The flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of Cheney’s interment, which is expected to be November 14.

Protocol for half-staff flag display

• Flags must first be raised to full staff, then lowered to halfway
• They should be raised to full staff again before sunset on the final day
• State flags should follow the same protocol when flown with the U.S. flag

Has Trump made any statement about Dick Cheney’s death?

As of November 8, former President Donald Trump has not issued any public statement regarding Cheney’s passing. This silence is notable given their political history. Cheney was among Trump’s most prominent Republican critics, famously calling him “a threat to the republic” after the January 6 Capitol riot.

The lack of response contrasts with protocol during previous administrations, where sitting and former presidents typically issue statements honoring deceased predecessors. Even political rivals traditionally offer respectful recognition of service.

Notable reactions from other leaders

How long will flags remain at half-staff for Dick Cheney?

Federal guidelines specify that flags should fly at half-staff for 30 days following the death of a former Vice President. However, President Biden has authorized an 11-day period of mourning until Cheney’s interment on November 14. This shorter duration follows recent precedents rather than the maximum allowance.

State governments typically mirror federal proclamations, though they may extend the period. For example, Iowa Governor Reynolds ordered flags lowered “until sunset on the day of interment,” while Texas will maintain half-staff flags through November 14.

Historical comparison of mourning periods

• 30 days: Standard for sitting President or Vice President
• 10 days: Recent average for former Vice Presidents
• 7 days: Common duration for Supreme Court Justices and Cabinet members

What was Dick Cheney’s political legacy and why does it matter today?

Cheney’s career spanned decades of conservative leadership, from his time as White House Chief of Staff under Gerald Ford to Vice President during the post-9/11 era. His influence reshaped national security policy, particularly regarding surveillance programs and counterterrorism strategies. Many credit (or blame) Cheney for expanding executive power during wartime.

In later years, Cheney became an unlikely critic of Trumpism, lamenting the GOP’s shift toward isolationism. This positioned him as a paradoxical figure – simultaneously architect of controversial Bush-era policies and defender of traditional conservative institutions against Trump’s populism.

When should you lower your own flag to half-staff?

While private citizens aren’t required to follow federal half-staff proclamations, many choose to participate during periods of national mourning. Experts recommend:

• Check official proclamations from whitehouse.gov or your state governor
• Respect the specified time frames rather than improvising
• Ensure proper flag etiquette if displaying at home or business

For homeowners, the decision often reflects personal respect rather than obligation. During the Civil Rights Movement, for instance, many citizens lowered flags to honor martyred activists despite no official proclamation.

Flag etiquette mistakes to avoid

Conclusion: A nation’s symbolic gesture

The half-staff flags represent more than bureaucratic procedure. They embody America’s ritual of collective mourning and historical continuity. Whether for Dick Cheney or other leaders, these moments prompt reflection on shifting political values and national identity.

The current situation particularly highlights tensions between institutional traditions and contemporary political realities. As flags flutter at midpoint across the country, they silently testify to both respect for public service and the complex legacy of those who’ve shaped national policy.