Governor Polis ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff to honor the passing of Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. Flags are to be lowered from sunrise on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 until sunset on the day of the service, which has not yet been announced.
“I was sad to hear of the passing of Senator Nighthorse Campbell. From being an Olympic athlete, to jewelry designer, horse trainer and then public servant at the state and federal level, he lived many different lives in his own unique way and always found a way to give back and serve. He was the only Native American in the United States Senate when he served, and also served the United States with distinction in the US Air Force. And he worked tirelessly to help build the National museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC. He will be missed here in Colorado and across the country, and his contributions leave a lasting legacy to our state and nation,” said Governor Jared Polis.
Visit halfstaff.org, opens a new window or colorado.gov/governor/flag-status, opens a new window for up-to-date information and sign up for alerts.
Brief History
The tradition of flying a flag at half-staff began in the 17th century. Sometimes you'll hear "half-mast" but that is reserved for usage aboard a ship. The president can issue an executive order for the flag to be flown at half-staff, often upon the death of a notable figure or because of a tragic event. When such an order is issued, all government buildings, military bases, schools and offices are to lower their flags half-staff.
Why are other flags flown at half-staff? Because no flag can be placed above the flag of the United States. Governors of U.S. states and territories can also order U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff, often when a member of the armed forces dies in active duty or when a current or former state official dies.
Learn more about the flag and Flag Day, a day that celebrates that red, white and blue.
Flag Etiquette
Read about flag code and etiquette, opens a new window.
Add a comment to: Why Is the Flag at Half-Staff?