Donald Trump’s Big Announcement: US President Donald Trump has made another major announcement. Now, anyone who burns the US national flag will be punished with a one-year prison sentence. President Trump directed ICE, the Border Patrol Commando Regiment, and the US Army to immediately arrest anyone who disrespects the flag and sentence them to one year in prison. It is worth noting that President Trump issued the Order under his “America First” policy.
Executive Order Signed on August 25
President Trump stated in a media briefing that he signed an executive order on August 25, which provides that anyone who burns or disrespects the US national flag in any way will be immediately arrested. Legal action will be taken against the offender, and they will be sentenced to a term of one year in prison. ICE, Border Patrol Force, and all US military personnel should strictly enforce this Order and take action against those who disrespect the national flag.
Justified the decision by citing two cases
President Trump stated that although the Executive Order does not provide for punishment, a former soldier burned the American flag outside the White House despite warnings. This incident occurred on the same day he signed the executive Order. Still, the Justice Department has now been directed to prosecute those who desecrate the national flag under existing laws and impose the prescribed penalties. Supreme Court decisions in Texas v. Johnson (1989) and United States v. Eichman (1990) state that burning the national flag is a crime.
Trump issued the Order after taking cognisance of two cases.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson told Fox News Digital, “President Trump himself has long advocated for punitive action against those who desecrate the national flag. He believes the national flag is a symbol of America’s greatness. He will not allow it to be used as a means to incite violence and riots.” The Communist Party and other anti-fascist groups burned the American flag on the steps of the Colorado State Capitol in Denver, Colorado, on January 20, 2021. An American flag was burned during a DNC protest in Chicago, Illinois, on August 22, 2024. President Trump issued the order suo motu, effective immediately, taking cognisance of these matters.
