President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday directing federal prosecutors to bring criminal charges against individuals who burn the American flag during protests, The Guardian reported.
The order instructs Attorney General Pam Bondi to explore whether flag burners can be prosecuted under existing laws, such as disturbing the peace or violating environmental regulations.
BREAKING: President Trump signs executive order to mandate one full year in jail for protesters who burn American flags
— Fox News (@FoxNews) August 25, 2025
TRUMP: “The people in this country don’t want to see our American flag burned and spit on ... They’re bad people that are trying to destroy our nation...” pic.twitter.com/Qo1Ib712F0
The move seeks to bypass the Supreme Court’s 1989 ruling in Texas v. Johnson, which held that flag burning is protected political expression under the First Amendment. That decision struck down laws banning the practice in 48 states.
Trump argued that flag burning incites riots and undermines national unity. He has long advocated for penalties, once suggesting jail time or loss of citizenship.
Public opinion appears to lean toward his stance: a 2023 YouGov poll found that 59% of Americans said burning the flag during protests is “never” acceptable.
Related:
TIPP Staff
