THE VERDICT HAS BEEN DELIVERED! KAROLINE LEAVIT JUST DELETED A TRUTH B0MB!

Meanwhile, civic groups warned that reducing dissent to “spitting on the flag” encourages a culture where symbolic loyalty replaces policy discussion, leaving real governance buried under theatrics.

Yet others argued symbolism matters precisely because it signals shared identity, and when symbols are mocked, citizens feel their sacrifices are mocked too, which intensifies polarization fast.

Behind the noise, the deeper question emerged: can a nation tolerate harsh internal critique and still maintain cohesion, or does cohesion require restraint that inevitably feels like censorship.

The exchange became a proxy fight over immigration itself, with some demanding assimilation and reverence, while others insisted the American promise includes the right to challenge America publicly.