Hours after President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing strict penalties on ‘desecration of the American flag,’ a citizen set fire to the United States flag near the White House. The incident in Washington, D.C. sparked widespread debate about freedom of expression and the legal limits of political protest. Local authorities arrested the unidentified man on charges of ‘disturbing public order’ and ‘damaging public property.’ Videos showed the man igniting the flag in front of a small crowd, chanting slogans calling for individual freedom. Police quickly intervened to extinguish the fire and arrest the suspect. Trump’s executive order aims to strengthen what he calls ‘American patriotism’ by tightening penalties for acts considered desecration of the national flag, including burning or tearing. Critics argue this contradicts the 1989 U.S. Supreme Court ruling (Texas v.

Johnson) that flag burning is protected under the First Amendment as a form of political expression. The Supreme Court’s decision sparked heated debate, recognizing flag burning as free speech, making criminalization attempts legally challenging. Trump’s executive order reflects his recurring political rhetoric focusing on enhancing national symbols as part of his campaign to rally his base. Historically, burning the American flag has been a controversial symbol of political protest in the U.S., used by activists to oppose government policies, including protests against wars, racism, or contentious political decisions.