Sunny Hostin, co-host of The View, said she feels unsafe in U.S. neighborhoods where American flags are prominently displayed [1].
The comments highlight a growing tension regarding the interpretation of national symbols and their association with political extremism. Hostin's perspective reflects a concern that symbols of patriotism are being co-opted by groups promoting hate, altering how some citizens perceive their surroundings.
Hostin spoke about her discomfort during an interview on July 8, 2026 [1]. She said the prevalence of the flag is linked to images of white-supremacist groups using the symbol, which leads her to feel unsafe [3].
"I suddenly feel unsafe when I'm in a neighborhood that has a lot of American flags on display," Hostin said [2].
She further elaborated on the connection between the imagery and her anxiety. "I feel unsafe around American flags because of white supremacy," Hostin said [3].
During a segment on The Hill's "Rising" program, she said she feels discomfort when encountering neighborhoods with numerous flags [1]. This is not the first time the co-host has addressed this topic; she previously made similar statements in 2021 [4].
Hostin did not specify particular cities or regions, referring generally to U.S. neighborhoods where the flags are common [1]. Her statements focus on the psychological impact of seeing the national flag used by extremist groups, a trend she suggests has changed the meaning of the symbol for her.
“"I suddenly feel unsafe when I'm in a neighborhood that has a lot of American flags on display."”
Hostin's comments underscore a cultural divide in the U.S. regarding the ownership of national symbols. While the American flag is traditionally viewed as a sign of patriotism, its adoption by certain extremist movements has created a conflicting semiotic meaning for some observers, transforming a symbol of national unity into a trigger for perceived threat.
