CNN contributor and The New York Times’ The Interview co-host Lulu Garcia-Navarro argued Thursday that Democrats have surrendered the language of patriotism to Republicans, prompting an immediate debate with CNN host Kasie Hunt over whether that perception reflects the country as a whole. Appearing on The Arena, Garcia-Navarro said she believes the Democratic Party has […]

CNN contributor and The New York Times’ The Interview co-host Lulu Garcia-Navarro argued Thursday that Democrats have surrendered the language of patriotism to Republicans, prompting an immediate debate with CNN host Kasie Hunt over whether that perception reflects the country as a whole.

Appearing on The Arena, Garcia-Navarro said she believes the Democratic Party has gradually distanced itself from traditional expressions of patriotism, leaving Republicans to dominate that political space.

“I actually think the Democratic Party, writ large, has stepped away from the rallying around the flag,” Garcia-Navarro said. “They have allowed Republicans to own patriotism.”

She then took the argument a step further, suggesting that public displays of the American flag have become politically coded.

“If you see an American flag now, you are going to assume that that person is a Republican,” she said.

Host Kasie Hunt immediately challenged the assertion.

“Are we really there?” Hunt asked.

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“Yes, we’re really there,” Garcia-Navarro replied before continuing her point.

Hunt remained unconvinced, arguing that the perception may be stronger in some parts of the country than others.

“Maybe we are on the coast,” Hunt said. “I don’t think we are in Middle America.”

Garcia-Navarro responded that she believes the trend extends beyond coastal cities.

“I think in some ways we are,” she said.

The exchange highlighted an ongoing debate about patriotism and political identity in the United States. Republicans have long emphasized national symbols, military service, and displays of the American flag as central parts of their political messaging. Many Democrats also describe themselves as patriotic but have, at times, expressed concern that certain national symbols have become associated with partisan politics rather than broad civic identity.

Whether Garcia-Navarro’s assessment accurately reflects public opinion is open to debate. Surveys have consistently found that Americans across the political spectrum express pride in the country, though Republicans generally report higher levels of national pride than Democrats. At the same time, public displays of the American flag remain common across communities with a wide range of political views.