Political Tensions Over Pledge of Allegiance in Sacramento

Members of the Sacramento City Council with progressive views, aiming for Congressional seats, have notably distanced themselves from the American flag and the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilwoman Mai Vann’s determination to challenge long-serving Democratic Rep. Doris Matsui in the upcoming June primary raises questions about her appeal to voters.

Polls indicate that Vann is somewhat neck-and-neck with Matsui while holding a slight lead over Republican candidate Zachariah Wood. However, in the newly redefined 7th Congressional District, which encompasses more conservative towns like Lodi and El Dorado Hills, this approach might be questionable.

David Cushman, the San Joaquin Republican Party Chairman, opined that Vann seems to be imitating a controversial style reminiscent of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. “This strategy doesn’t resonate with the local demographic,” he stated. “She’s attempting to channel AOC in the Central Valley, but those places are very different from AOC’s district or even Nancy Pelosi’s area in San Francisco.”

Vann, whose background includes being the daughter of Hmong refugees, has consistently opted out of reciting the pledge, including during significant occasions like last year’s Veterans Day ceremony. Her stance has drawn criticism, particularly from Democratic consultant Steve Maviglio, who called her behavior “utterly disrespectful” to veterans and their families. “Saying the Pledge is fundamental—it’s just a basic act of respect,” he remarked.

In a Facebook post from February 2025, Vann explained her refusal by highlighting her love for the country while advocating for awareness of ongoing injustices. Some critics suggest her stance contradicts the security her family sought in America after the Vietnam War, where violence targeted Hmong families post withdrawal.

California Republican Party Chairman Colin Rankin commented that Vann’s refusal to recite the pledge reflects a larger issue within the Democratic Party, pointing to a perceived lack of respect for law enforcement and national symbols. “Voters want leaders who honor the police and our flag,” he emphasized. “If a candidate doesn’t show that basic respect, it can tell voters everything they need to know.”

Vann’s rival, a first-time Republican candidate, also expressed concerns about her apparent indifference to symbols of American pride. He noted, “When aspiring Congress members disregard fundamental American values, it’s not just unfortunate—it feels malicious.”