A Nebraska state senator was recently seen on video taking down a portrait of a founding figure in the state’s Capitol, and she is now standing by her actions.
Footage captured at the Capitol revealed Democratic Sen. Makaela Kavanaugh removing a portrait from an exhibit meant to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The exhibit, which displayed images of the Declaration of Independence signers and notable women in U.S. history, was provided by the conservative group PragerU. Governor Jim Pillen criticized Kavanaugh, asserting that this anniversary should represent unity rather than divisiveness, expressing his disappointment in her actions online.
Kavanaugh explained to a local news outlet that she believed her actions didn’t violate any rules of the Capitol and stated that the exhibit was not authorized. Specifically, she referenced Rule 4.07, which typically limits exhibits in the rotunda to a week and prohibits distributing flyers in the Capitol.
“I don’t even know what the photo was. I wasn’t being careful when I removed it; I just took it down,” she remarked, insisting her actions weren’t politically motivated. Kavanaugh added that she verified the photo he tweeted was not the one she took.
Later, she mentioned that she contacted the Nebraska State Patrol to inform them of where the portrait was located, aiming to avoid damaging it. Reports indicated that the portrait was returned by 3 PM on Wednesday. The State Patrol confirmed that no citations were issued, there was no apparent damage, and the poster was sent back to the Capitol Commission.
Kavanaugh’s actions sparked significant discussion online, drawing over a million views on social media. Critics have accused elected officials of violating free speech and civic discourse, regarding the incident as a dangerous act that undermines efforts to celebrate shared history.
Notably, some responses to the incident referenced Kavanaugh’s previous protests in Congress, including her vocal presence during debates on transgender legislation in 2023.
Marissa Streit, CEO of Prager University, articulated that America’s 250th anniversary should be a moment to reflect on shared values rather than divide. She expressed disappointment in how some politicians are approaching this occasion.
