As millions of Americans reflect on Memorial Day weekend to honor those who died in military service, California Congressional candidate Mai Vann seems likely to take a different approach.
The left-handed Sacramento City Councilman openly boasts about avoiding the Pledge of Allegiance at public events and has frequently turned his back on the flag.
Vann is competing to unseat long-time Democratic Rep. Doris Matsui in the upcoming June primary. Current polls indicate a tight race, with Vann holding a slim edge over Republican Zachariah Wood.
This idea of having an anti-American legislator doesn’t sit well with many voters in the newly redrawn 7th District, which includes more conservative areas like Lodi and Placerville, in addition to Sacramento and Elk Grove.
David Cushman, Chairman of the San Joaquin Republican Party, remarked that Vann is attempting to emulate ambitious New York state Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez but is misreading her district’s dynamics. “Her strategy is ill-fitted for this area,” he noted.
Vann, who is the daughter of Hmong refugees, has notably declined to say the pledge on several occasions, from Veterans Day last year to meetings this past January and March, even during a City Council meeting in July 2025.
Democratic consultant Steve Maviglio criticized Vann’s behavior as completely disrespectful to veterans and their families. “It’s ‘Patriotism 101’: you should say the Pledge even if you don’t agree with everything,” he said, questioning how difficult it is to recite it.
Although Vann didn’t respond to requests for comments, he has expressed pride in his decision to skip the Pledge, posting on social media that he uses these moments to center himself. He mentioned injustices both locally and globally that continue to affect many people under the influence of the U.S.
Critics are particularly incensed by the juxtaposition of her family’s journey, aided by the U.S. military, against Matsui’s experience of internment during World War II as a Japanese American.
Amy Gardner, a community organizer, described Vann’s actions during the pledge as “upsetting,” while also criticizing his stance on public safety. Reports indicate that Vann has opposed multiple budget proposals from 2021 to 2025 due to disagreements over police funding, leading to concerns from some community members about his intentions.
Colin Rankin, Chairman of the California Republican Party, stated that Vann’s refusal to participate in this American ritual highlights broader deficiencies within the Democratic Party. “Voters want leaders who respect police and our flag,” he emphasized, suggesting that failing to do so is a significant issue for constituents.
Wooden, a newcomer from San Joaquin County, appears well-positioned to advance to the November runoff based on early prospects, raising concerns about Vann’s seeming indifference to a vital symbol of American identity. “It’s disappointing and shows a denial of fundamental American values,” he commented.
