Honestly, the second “No Kings” protest was beyond disappointing. Protesting on Flag Day and again on the Fourth of July? That’s not just poor timing — it’s a deliberate slap in the face to this country and everyone who’s ever fought to defend it.
These days aren't random — they represent sacrifice, freedom and everything that makes America worth standing up for. And, yet, some people have decided that these are the days to wave signs and shout about how much they dislike the current administration?
That’s not protest — that’s disrespect.
Like it or not, we live in a republic. That means elections have consequences. Millions of Americans had to swallow their frustrations and live through the last administration without turning every national holiday into a spectacle.
They didn’t burn the flag — they saluted it and pushed through, because that’s what Americans do. So yes, you can protest. That’s your right — one bought and paid for by generations of soldiers who didn’t die so you could trash your own country on its birthday. But don’t expect people to cheer you on when you use the most sacred American holidays to make a political point.
You’re not speaking truth to power — you’re turning your back on the very nation that gives you that freedom.
And for the local Democratic Party to organize this kind of protest on Independence Day? That tells me everything I need to know. It’s not about love for country. It’s not about unity. It’s about scoring points, no matter the cost.
We can disagree. We can debate. But if you can’t take one day — one — to set that aside and honor the red, white and blue, then maybe it’s time to ask yourself what you’re really fighting for.
This is America. Start acting like it matters.
Leah Sisemore
Centralia
