The city of San Francisco has removed the Revolutionary War-era “Appeal to Heaven” flag featuring a pine tree following a controversy with Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito. Democrats have been calling for Alito to recuse himself in a case against former President Donald Trump after images surfaced of the flag waving over his beach house.
Key Points
City of San Francisco removes “Appeal to Heaven” flag
Flag originally symbolized quest for American independence
Democrats call for Justice Samuel Alito to recuse himself in a case after flag controversy
Pros
Addressing controversial use of historical symbols
Cons
Potential misinterpretation or misrepresentation of flag's historical significance