A reporter from USA Today has drawn significant criticism for stating that a top education official displayed a “Christian nationalist” flag in his office. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the flag in question was actually an “Appeal to Heaven” flag, which has historical roots dating back to the American Revolution.
Zach Schermele shared an image of the flag outside the office of Murray Bessette, who serves as the principal deputy assistant secretary in the Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development. Schermele claimed—drawing on sources including a Department of Education union and an eyewitness—that this flag, associated with the rioters from the January 6th incident, was being showcased in Bessette’s workspace.
The response on social media was swift and largely mockery-filled. Senator Mike Lee from Utah reacted by asserting, “We will never let left-wing media ignorant of our history demonize a patriotic flag that goes back to the Revolutionary War. I’m proud to display it outside my office!” He firmly stated that the flag is not a “Christian nationalist flag.”
Others, like Dan McLaughlin from National Review, emphasized that the flag was designed under the commission of George Washington. It also has historical significance in two states, Maine and Massachusetts, where it served various roles over the years. Critics poked fun at the report, questioning the reporter’s intelligence with comments like, “Can you hire a reporter with an IQ above room temperature?”
Kostas Moros, an advocate for the Second Amendment, remarked that criticizing a flag celebrating natural rights reflects a disdain for America’s foundational principles. Schermele did not reply to requests for comment from other news outlets.
Glenn Beck, co-founder of Blaze Media, elaborated on the flag’s rich history, noting that it represents not only regional pride in New England’s lumber resources but also peacemaking traditions among the Iroquois. He mentioned that it had previously appeared on coins from the Massachusetts Bay Colony, reflecting its legacy as a symbol of resistance and unity among different tribes fighting for independence.
