My Position on A Constitutional Amendment To Prevent the Desecration of Our Flag

I served as an officer in the United States Army and United States Army Reserve and understand the pride which  members of our Armed Forces, Vermonters, and American citizens have in our national symbol. I respect our American flag.

I believe a nation is defined by its symbols, its citizens and its values. Our country benefits from honesty, responsibility and good citizenship and these values should be continually encouraged and supported.

I have no respect for anyone who would desecrate the American flag. It is the symbol or our country that provides freedoms like our First Amendment freedom of speech. I stand with those Americans who believe our country derives great strength from this First Amendment right. Debate and discussion about divisive issues is at the core of this strength. For this reason I can not support and cosponsor a constitutional amendment to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States.

I will, however, focus public attention on any such desecration of our national symbol and will point out the lack of respect such acts entail. I believe our country and its democracy remain strongest, when such acts of desecration are tolerated and subsequently shown to be ineffective in winning public opinion.