Gov. Jared Polis has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff on all public buildings until sunset Wednesday, as a sign of remembrance and honor for his former colleague, Rep. Alcee Hastings of Florida, as proclaimed by President Joe Biden.

“I’m saddened to lose a friend and former colleague. For the 10 years I served in the United States Congress, I sat next to Alcee on the Rules Committee, including during many late night sessions,” Polis said. “No one could spin a yarn like Alcee, who always made his points in an inspirational and often poetic manner. I will miss him.”