The mayor of a small Mississippi city is facing a wave of criticism after publicly questioning the decision to lower American flags to half-staff in honor of Dolly Parton. Ken Adams, the mayor of Olive Branch, took to the city’s Facebook page on August 28 to express his concerns regarding the gesture. Per Fox News, Adams argued that lowering the flag should be reserved for specific, major instances to ensure the act maintains its significance.
Adams wrote, “I believe lowering the American flag to half-staff should mean something very significant. …. In my opinion, it should be reserved for our military heroes, fallen first responders, presidents and other major national leaders, or events that have had a tremendous impact on our country.” He continued, “If we lower the flag every time a well-known or beloved person passes away, I believe we eventually lessen the meaning of the gesture.”
Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80, and shortly afterwards Donald Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide for a full week, a directive that extended until sunset on September 1. Per PEOPLE, this one-week duration for the country legend is notably longer than the periods assigned to other public figures, such as the late Pope Francis, Senator Lindsey Graham, and Charlie Kirk.
“Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
Trump shared his thoughts on Truth Social: “There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one-week period beginning tonight at 6:00 PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
Many cities across the United States have moved forward with the order, but Adams argued that local governments should retain discretion. As reported by The Tennessean, Adams emphasized that his city, with a population of approximately 47,000, operates under home rule. This legal framework, according to the mayor, provides Mississippi cities with the leeway to manage their own internal affairs rather than simply following blanket mandates.
“The President can make the decision for the country. The Governor can make the decision for the State of Mississippi. I believe a mayor should have the ability to make a decision for his or her city,” Adams wrote on Facebook. He added, “I also don’t believe residents elected me to be a ‘salute and execute’ Mayor but to lead with conviction.”
Despite the backlash, the mayor clarified that his position is not intended as an attack on the singer’s legacy. The outlet noted that he began his statement by acknowledging that Parton was a “great person” who “brought happiness to millions of people and has done tremendous things for others throughout her life.”
He reportedly stated, “I have nothing but respect for her.” He further clarified his intent by writing, “This isn’t about disrespecting Dolly Parton. It isn’t about politics. And it certainly isn’t about saying she wasn’t a great American.” Many residents and observers took to the comment section to challenge the mayor’s logic.
One commenter noted, “When you said ‘it’s simply my belief’, I guess you said it all. Doesn’t matter to you what the President, the Governor or your residents believe. And ‘reserved for people who made a tremendous impact?’ Well…she was probably the most unifying figure of the past 40 years; and she donated 325 million books to kids. Sounds like an impact.” Another critic wrote, “I’d lower it for Dolly before any politician.”
A third critic pointed out that Parton’s life of service included significant contributions to military organizations, which they argued should qualify her for the honor. Others highlighted that the flag has been lowered for various figures in the past, suggesting that the mayor’s hesitation was misplaced.
Parton herself was known for being careful with politics. In a 2021 interview, she said, “I know whatever I say, people are going to listen, and they’re going to make more of it than maybe what I meant. So I have to be careful. Of course I have my opinion, but I’m not an opinionated person as a rule. You’re allowed your own beliefs and your own faith, but you don’t have to use it like a weapon when it could be a tool.”
Published: Aug 31, 2026 04:00 am