Hochul says N.Y. flags to fly full staff for Trump inauguration; BP Fossella grateful after request

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.—Authorization given.

Vito Fossella, the president of Staten Island Borough, was asked to comment on New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to order all flags in the state to fly at full staff for Donald Trump’s inauguration.

We express our gratitude to Governor Hochul for considering our request and directing that flags fly at full staff throughout the state of New York tomorrow in honor of President Trump’s inauguration. The governor should be commended for fostering unity among all New Yorkers and Americans and for realizing the value of uniting as a nation.

Many American flags will be at full staff, despite limits on flag codes. Jimmy Carter, the 39th president, died 22 days ago. According to flag code regulation, 30 days after a former president’s passing, the flag shall be flown half-staff on the day of the president’s inauguration.

Hochul declared that flags in New York would be flown at half-staff shortly after Carter’s passing.

Hochul, a Democrat at the time, claimed that President Jimmy Carter had demonstrated morality and honesty throughout his career in public office. I will always remember meeting him in Buffalo as a teenager. For many Americans, including me, he served as an inspiration. During this trying time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family.

Fossella stated in a letter to the state governor that the flags being raised in New York to commemorate Trump’s inauguration would be a sign of respect and solidarity.

“We look forward to our nation’s future today,” Fossella said.