Sacramento councilmember Mai Vang faces backlash over refusal to recite Pledge of Allegiance

California's 7th Congressional District candidate and Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang is facing criticism after videos resurfaced showing her refusing to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Over Memorial Day weekend, multiple clips showed Vang turning aside or remaining silent during city council meetings as other members recited the pledge toward the American flag. As recently as Wednesday, she was seen with her eyes downcast during the pledge.

Vang, who has held her Sacramento City Council seat since 2020, previously addressed her refusal in a 2025 Facebook post.

"[T]his is exactly why I choose not to recite the Pledge of Allegiance during every council meeting," Vang said. "As much as I love this country, I use that moment to ground myself—to center our communities and remind myself of the injustices and harm that continue to affect so many, both locally and across the globe, under this nation’s influence."

She continued, "We must not tune out—they want us to become numb to the realities we see in the news—it’s part of the plan to keep us complacent. But instead, we resist. We surround ourselves with loved ones, take time to rest, remain vigilant, and stay steadfast in the fight for equity, justice & humanity. We got us. I love you all."

Fox News Digital reached out to Vang for comment.

Vang is one of several candidates seeking to challenge longtime Democratic Rep. Doris Matsui, who has held the California seat for over 20 years. She has voiced support for universal healthcare, increased taxes on billionaires and abolishing ICE.

Sacramento Democratic political consultant Steve Maviglio called Vang's actions "completely disrespectful."

"It’s ‘Patriotism 101,’ you say the Pledge of Allegiance even if you don’t agree with everything," Maviglio said. "You can’t say the Pledge of Allegiance—that’s how extreme you are? Come on."

The primary will be held on June 2.