Former President Donald Trump has issued a new order limiting the types of flags that can be flown at U.S. diplomatic facilities worldwide. The directive ensures that only the American flag is displayed, symbolizing unity and shared values.
The State Department released the policy, saying, “Starting immediately, only the United States of America flag is authorized to be flown or displayed at U.S. facilities, both domestic and abroad.” The statement emphasizes that the flag represents justice, liberty, and democracy—principles that unite all Americans.
While the rule prohibits flags like the Pride flag or Black Lives Matter flag, exceptions include the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag and the Wrongful Detainees flag. These will still be allowed at U.S. facilities under the order.
This move follows years of debate over non-American flags being displayed at government properties. In 2021, U.S. embassies raised the Pride flag to celebrate Pride Month, leading to backlash from Republicans. That same year, conservatives introduced the “Old Glory Only Act,” aiming to restrict flag displays to just the U.S. flag. However, the bill didn’t pass.
Later, during the Biden administration, a similar restriction was included in a major government spending bill to avoid a government shutdown. The administration, however, promised to repeal it later.
Now, under Trump’s new policy, his supporters are celebrating. Prominent allies, like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, expressed support online, referencing Trump’s famous line: “I’m not tired of winning!”
The directive was signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. It further reinforces the stance that the American flag should be the sole representation of the nation’s values at government facilities.
For many Republicans, this policy aligns with their long-standing effort to limit non-American flags on U.S. properties. Critics, however, see it as a step back for inclusive representation.
The decision has once again sparked debate over how the U.S. balances representation and unity in its symbols.