Barack obama doesn't wear a flag pin is this a big deal?

Barak Obama refuses to wear a flag pin. Is this a big deal? I personally agree, his comment 'wearing a flag pin feels like a substitute for true patriotism' rings true to me, as I saw a LOT of people toting the flag in a very aggressive manner post 9/11...while they weren't doing stuff in a positive way (eg, working to make the country a better place, more equal, just, fair, etc).

Is not wearing the American flag as a political candidate worthy of some public bashing? Or is it being blown out of proportion?

Simple for me, I was taught and believe it is always right to have pride in your country and show it - I think it's a shame that in some circles, wearing an American Flag pin has become 'unpatriotic' - regardless what any party is doing or not doing, I will look at the 'big picture' and proudly display my American pride.

I think it's much more important to focus on his actions than whether or not he wears a flag.

You Americans and your flag! The rest of the world laughs at you. Obama is quite right. The best way to show you love your country is to work to make it the best country in the world, not shout and sing about how good it is while it leads the world in so many negative statistics, and places like Abu Gharib and Guantanamo Bay make a mockery of your much-touted freedom.

Bash America as much as you like - still doesn't change the fact that it does indeed represent Freedom and is the Greatest Nation in many, many, ways (too numerous to mention here) that the world has ever known - and Hey, don't call on this country to bail you out when your enemies come calling !! - over the years, did America come to your country and give Billions and aid or is it your country that came to America's aid and gave Billions ? - Every country has their strong points and weak points !!

Who's bashing America? I've been there and it's very interesting, with much to admire (like Grand Canyon and the Golden Gate bridge). But we've got more freedom than you. 'Bail us out when our enemies come calling?' You mean like Iraq, and soon Iran? We have no enemies, because we don't go barging round the world meddling in other countries. (And yes, Saddam was a horror, but the hundreds of thousands of Iraqis who've lost family members since he was overthrown don't thank you.)

'Greatest Nation that the world has ever known'? That's EXACTLY the kind of arrogance you are famous for. We actually find it rather pathetic.

it's his choice if he wants to wear it or not.

No, no Barak Obama must be MADE to wear a flag pin to show that he's FREE!