Shortly thereafter, Governor Bentley told al.com, "This is the right thing to do. We are facing major issues in this state regarding the budget and other matters that we need to deal with. This had the potential to become a major distraction as we go forward. I have taxes to raise, we have work to do. And it was my decision that the flag needed to come down."

The Confederate flag took center stage earlier this week after the tragedy in South Carolina. Police say 21-year old Dylann Roof killed nine african Americans inside Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston last Wednesday night to create a "race war". Calls for the Confederate flag to be taken down outside of the South Carolina state capitol has sparked heated debate in every Southern state.

South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Senator Lindsey Graham have been steadfast in their views on removing the flag since that tragic night.

"After the tragic, hate-filled shooting in Charleston, it is only appropriate that we deal once and for all with the issue of the flag, " said Graham. "I hope that, by removing the flag, we can take another step towards healing & moving South Carolina forward."

Many Southerners are outraged that the Confederate flag is being removed from memorials and argue that the flag is a symbol of the history of the South and the home they love so dearly, not a symbol of slavery and racism.