While the Stars and Stripes flies proudly across the United States, a surprising number of Americans have turned their attention to a heated debate thousands of miles away in Britain.
The discussion? Whether Union and St George’s flags should be displayed publicly amid rising tensions over national identity and social movements.
Flying the Flag in Britain Sparks Controversy
The movement, dubbed “Operation Flying the Colours,” emerged after protests at asylum hotels and the display of Palestinian flags in Birmingham, which were intended to show solidarity with Gaza.
In response, supporters have draped Union and St George’s flags across town centres and even defied council pleas by marking road signs and roundabouts with the St George’s Cross.
Some local authorities, including Birmingham and Tower Hamlets, have removed banners from council-owned infrastructure over safety concerns.
Still, the debate has grown into a wider conversation about patriotism, national pride, and the influence of far-right groups.
American Conservatives Step Into the Debate
Across the Atlantic, American conservatives and TikTok influencers have thrown their support behind the UK flag-flyers.
Many cite a shared love of national symbols and pride in their country as motivation.
Gaines, a conservative activist who has campaigned on gender-critical issues, shared how her British husband embraced American patriotism.
Posting a photo with him in front of the US flag, she noted that he planted a 25-foot pole in their yard upon moving to the States, showing immense pride in American freedoms.
Conservative Organizations Promote the Campaign
Turning Point USA, where Gaines works as a campaigner, has encouraged Operation Flying the Colours.
Its UK branch, led by former MP Marco Longhi, actively supports the movement.
Former US-UK affairs advisor Lee Cohen has even suggested that flying the Union and St George’s flags should be mandatory in England, arguing they represent true English identity and unity.
Social Media Voices Join the Conversation
Prominent American figures have shared their approval on social media.
Virginia delegate Nick Freitas praised Brits for expressing patriotism despite local authorities threatening to remove flags.
TikTok creator themidnght123 encouraged Americans to “send prayers to the UK” for raising their flags in defiance of what he called corrupt governance.
Even US Vice President JD Vance joined in, telling Fox News that being proud of one’s country is natural and encouraged Europeans to stand up against those who belittle patriotism.
UK Conservatives Respond to Flag Dispute
Back home, British politicians have weighed in as well.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick personally displayed flags, while Tory leader Kemi Badenoch wrote that flying the flag represents unity, optimism, and pride in one’s nation.
She emphasized that patriotism, regardless of background, is not extreme or racist.
Far-Right Elements and Donations
However, the campaign has also drawn support from far-right figures, including Tommy Robinson.
Operation Raise the Colours, co-founded by Andrew Currien (aka Andy Saxon), has accepted donations from Britain First, which denies allegations of being a far-right organization.
Prime Minister’s Position
Despite the controversy, Sir Keir Starmer’s office confirmed that the Prime Minister supports the display of English flags, citing his pride in Britain and the importance of patriotism, referencing events like the Lionesses’ Euro victory as examples of national pride.