NOVEMBER 5, 2024 — As part of the U.S. election today, Maine voters will decide whether to replace their current state flag with a design reminiscent of Maine’s original 1901 flag, which features a pine tree and a blue star, News Center Maine reports.
Maine’s Question 5 on the ballot asks voters if they would like to replace the current flag, which displays the state seal on a blue background, with a simpler design featuring a pine tree and a blue star. The proposed design closely resembles Maine’s original state flag from 1901, which advocates argue is a more distinctive representation of the state.
A SurveyUSA poll released on November 1 indicates that 52% of Maine voters oppose the redesign, while 33% support it, and 15% remain undecided.
The current flag redesign initiative stems from a state law enacted last year, and the proposal has sparked a discussion on state identity and symbolism.
Longtime advocate and vexillologist Dave Martucci has been a key figure in the effort, according to the Midcoast Villager. Martucci, who discovered the 1901 design in historical records over 30 years ago, has consistently supported its adoption. He argues that the current flag, featuring a complex state seal, is cluttered and lacks distinction, making it visually similar to other state flags.
Martucci has noted that the Pine Tree Flag is symbolic and visually clear, reflecting Maine’s natural heritage and simpler aesthetic. He contends that the uncluttered design could serve as a more striking representation of the state.
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