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Mai Vang Leads Primary, Refuses Pledge, Sparks GOP Criticism

5/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mai Vang refused to honor the flag and declined the Pledge of Allegiance at meetings, prompting criticism from Republican leaders and prompting chair David Cushman to say her strategy mimics Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Polls show Mai Vang tied with Rep. Doris Matsui and ahead of Republican Zachariah Wooden in the June 2 primary.
Mai Vang posted a February 2025 #FreePalestine saying she uses the pledge moment to highlight injustices.

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Story summary

Mai Vang refused to honor the flag and declined the Pledge of Allegiance at meetings, prompting criticism from Republican leaders and prompting chair David Cushman to say her strategy mimics Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Polls show Mai Vang tied with Rep. Doris Matsui and ahead of Republican Zachariah Wooden in the June 2 primary.
Mai Vang posted a February 2025 #FreePalestine saying she uses the pledge moment to highlight injustices.