Ahead of Nov. 5 Ballot, Maine Flag Change Polarizes Citizens

Proposed flag of Maine featuring a pine tree

OCTOBER 23, 2024 — The question of changing the Maine flag has polarized citizens, Courthouse News Service reports, ahead of the Nov. 5 ballot.

The question asks whether voters favor replacing the current state flag, in place since 1909, with the simpler Pine Tree Flag, reminiscent of Maine’s original design.

Supporters, like vexillologist David Martucci, argue the current flag with its detailed state seal is cluttered and indistinct, sharing similarities with many other state flags. Martucci highlights that the proposed Pine Tree Flag is visually striking, symbolic, and uncluttered, making it a great representation for Maine.

Opponents, including State Representative Shelley Rudnicki, see the change as unnecessary and rooted in political motives. Rudnicki suggests that the proposal is part of a “woke” movement to erase history, noting that the current flag represents Maine’s traditions. She also raised concerns about flags with stars being linked to communist countries.

Martucci dismissed such claims, asserting that the change is about creating a better flag, not a political agenda.

Maine leaders had previously reassured voters that the flag change will not incur any additional costs.

Image: CC0 1.0

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