OLYMPIA, Wash. - Governor Bob Ferguson extended a planned flag lowering directive in honor of National Patriot Day to include all victims of political violence, specifically activist Charlie Kirk and Minnesota state lawmakers who were assassinated in June.

The flag directive for Washington state facilities comes as shockwaves from the assassination of the Turning Point USA founder continue to ripple through the United States, drawing prayers and condemnation of violence from both sides of the political aisle.

Ferguson had previously ordered that flags be lowered on September 11 in annual memorial of the victims of the deadly terrorist attack that shook the nation 24 years ago.

Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were assassinated in their home on June 14, 2025.

See Full Page