A congressional candidate in California, Mai Vann, has stirred controversy by not reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and often turning away from the American flag. She has accused her rival, incumbent Rep. Doris Matsui, of aiding MAGA Republicans in their attempt to push her out of the race for a top position in the primary.
Vann, who serves on the Sacramento City Council, asserted that recent backlash regarding the pledge is part of this larger effort to diminish her chances. Supporters of her campaign pointed to a post from Matsui that mentioned Republican candidate Zachariah Wooden, highlighting his community service and his ties to Trump’s agenda.
Kevin Liao, a spokesperson for Matsui, remarked that the post aimed to distinguish Matsui from those “extreme Republican ideas.” However, Vann’s team contends this strategy is designed to elevate Wooden’s profile and improve Matsui’s odds in the upcoming election.
“As the primary approaches, Matsui lent herself $1.4 million and enlisted a super PAC aligned with her to back the MAGA Party relentlessly,” Bunn commented to the local media, expressing preferred support for her over Matsui.
He added, “Such deceptive tactics contribute to the worst aspects of politics, erode trust in our institutions, and divert focus from real issues impacting everyday citizens.”
Vann has faced considerable backlash for her actions, notably her habit of turning her back during the national anthem at city council gatherings. Steve Maviglio, a political consultant, previously insisted that reciting the Pledge ought to be standard practice, even for those who may disagree with certain aspects of it.
In her explanation, Vann mentioned that she uses the Pledge to center herself and reflect on ongoing injustices locally and globally that are perpetuated by the nation. “We must not become desensitized to the harsh realities presented in the news. This is part of a broader plan to keep us complacent. Instead, we will stay vigilant and committed to justice and equity,” she wrote online.
Wooden, on the other hand, labeled Vann’s refusal to salute the flag as “malicious,” arguing that indifference toward a major American symbol is disappointing for someone seeking a Congressional seat.
Bunn will compete against Wooden and Matsui in the June 2 primary for California’s 7th Congressional District, a seat Matsui has held since the death of her husband, Bob, in 2005.
