Kathrine Frich
Reciting a patriotic pledge is a deeply ingrained tradition in American public life.
When a politician skips that ritual, fireworks usually follow.
That exact scenario is currently playing out in a highly competitive California political race.
A quiet protest
Mai Vang serves on the city council in Sacramento, and she is running for a congressional seat. During public meetings, she frequently refuses to recite the Pledge of Allegiance according to Express.
Instead of speaking the words, she often turns her back to the flag. The silent protest happened at a Veterans Day ceremony last year.
It also occurred at multiple recent city council meetings.
Defending her choice
Vang defended her actions in a social media post last year. She explained that she uses that specific time to reflect on global and local injustices.
“As much as I love this country, I use that moment to ground myself, to center our communities and remind myself of the injustices and harm that continue to affect so many, both locally and across the globe, under this nation’s influence,” she wrote.
She added that people need to resist becoming complacent.
“But instead, we resist. We surround ourselves with loved ones, take time to rest, remain vigilant, and stay steadfast in the fight for equity, justice and humanity,” Vang stated.
Strong local backlash
Her approach is drawing sharp criticism from across the political spectrum. Democratic political consultant Steve Maviglio found her actions deeply offensive to military families.
“It’s ‘Patriotism 101’, you say the Pledge of Allegiance even if you don’t agree with everything. You can’t say the Pledge of Allegiance. That’s how extreme you are? Come on,” Maviglio said.
Republicans are also weighing in. David Cushman told the California Post that Vang is trying to copy politicians like Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez.
The primary fight
Vang is locked in a tight primary battle against long-serving Democratic Representative Doris Matsui. Both candidates are tied in the polls ahead of the June voting.
Opponents are also highlighting her record on public safety. The Sacramento Bee reports that Vang voted against multiple city budgets between 2021 and 2025 due to disagreements over police funding.
Corrin Rankin chairs the California Republican Party, and she claims this controversy highlights a larger issue.
“Voters want leaders who respect the police and honor the flag. When a candidate cannot meet that basic test, it tells voters everything they need to know,” Rankin noted.
Sources: California Post, The Sacramento Bee
