General Discussion

Trump's 2025 executive order
On August 25, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to increase prosecutions for flag burning.

Vigorous prosecution: The order directs the Attorney General to "vigorously prosecute" those who violate existing laws in ways that involve desecrating the flag and to "clarify the scope of the First Amendment exceptions".
Immigration penalties: It also instructs relevant agencies to deny or revoke visas, residence permits, or other immigration benefits for non-citizens who desecrate the flag in a manner that allows for such remedies under federal law.
Intended limitations: Legal experts have noted that prosecutions could be brought only for actions connected to flag burning that are not protected by the First Amendment, such as arson, theft, or inciting "imminent lawless action".
Expected legal challenge: Free speech advocates and legal experts state that the order runs contrary to established First Amendment law and will likely face court challenges