Vang Faces Backlash Over Pledge of Allegiance Stance as California CA-07 Race Against Matsui Intensifies
The controversy arrives as tensions have already intensified in the race between Vang and Matsui
Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang is facing a wave of criticism from conservative media outlets and social media commentators after renewed attention focused on her practice of declining to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and, at some public meetings, turning away from the American flag.
The controversy erupted this weekend in California's closely watched 7th Congressional District race, where Vang is mounting the strongest challenge in more than two decades against incumbent Democratic Rep. Doris Matsui. The June 2 top-two primary has become one of the most watched Democratic contests in California.
Conservative and right-leaning media organizations amplified video clips and images showing Vang not participating in the pledge during government meetings. Some critics argued the actions reflected disrespect toward the country and military service members, while social media criticism expanded into broader attacks, including comments widely characterized as xenophobic because they focused on Vang's Hmong refugee family background rather than solely on her actions.
An editorial published by the New York Post sharply criticized Vang, stating, "Those who disdain America — those who can't even stand respectfully for the Pledge of Allegiance — have no business trying to lead it." Reports also noted that some posts questioned her patriotism and loyalty.
Vang has publicly defended her position in previous statements. In a social media post cited by multiple news reports, Vang wrote: "As much as I love this country, I use that moment to ground myself — to center our communities and remind myself of the injustices and harm that continue to affect so many, both locally and across the globe, under this nation's influence."
Vang's comments suggest her decision is rooted in political and social concerns rather than opposition to the United States itself.
The controversy arrives as tensions have already intensified in the race between Vang and Matsui. Vang's campaign recently accused Matsui allies of attempting to elevate Republican candidate Zachariah Wooden in an effort to deny Vang a place in the November general election under California's top-two primary system. Vang's campaign alleged that boosting Wooden's profile, who has not mounted anything resembling a campaign, could split anti-incumbent votes and create a clearer path for Matsui's reelection.
Matsui's campaign has not publicly addressed those allegations. Matsui also has not publicly commented on the pledge controversy.
The dispute adds another layer to what has become an unusually competitive campaign for Matsui, who has represented the Sacramento area in Congress since 2005 and has rarely faced a well-funded or broadly visible challenge. Vang's campaign has framed the race as a contest between a younger progressive movement and long-established Democratic leadership.
