As America turns 250, some say the Stars and Stripes is now a red flag

Key Points:

• Bruce Watson, a longtime American flag enthusiast, now feels compelled to clarify that his patriotism is not aligned with the MAGA movement as the nation marks its 250th anniversary amid political polarization.
• Some Americans protest by flying the flag upside down to signal distress over the current political climate, while Trump supporters view this as disrespectful and maintain traditional flag displays.
• Others, like Air National Guard Master Sgt. Frank Chappell, have replaced the U.S. flag with state or alternative flags as a statement against division fueled by recent political rhetoric.
• Despite mixed feelings about national pride, flagmakers report increased demand for American flags during the semiquincentennial, reflecting a complex but enduring connection to the symbol.
• Historians note that the American flag has long been a contested symbol, with its meaning evolving over time and being claimed by different political groups, but experts emphasize it ultimately belongs to all Americans, transcending partisan divides.