McConnell Wades Into Flag Shoes Flap: I Want A Pair

The Lexington Courier-Journal reports:

Sen. Mitch McConnell will be rocking Nikes in 2019 if the company reverses course and releases its Betsy Ross flag-themed shoes.

McConnell rejected the idea that the flag, which is generally not viewed as a symbol for hate groups but has been used at times by groups like the Ku Klux Klan and was also prominent during a time when slavery was widespread in the American colonies, is “too offensive.”

“If we’re in a political environment where the American flag has become controversial to Americans, I think we’ve got a problem,” McConnell said. “I hope Nike either releases these shoes or some other shoe maker picks up the flag, puts it on a pair of shoes, and starts selling it. I’ll make the first order.”

Nike withdrew the shoe after a complaint from their star spokesperson, former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Arizona GOP Gov. Doug Ducey then announced that he was canceling financial incentives for a new Nike location in his state.

“I’ll make the first order”: Mitch McConnell urges Nike to reverse cancellation of Betsy Ross shoes https://t.co/QMLIxHfCvc

— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) July 3, 2019

Mitch McConnell is ready to ‘make the first order’ if Nike releases Betsy Ross flag shoes https://t.co/2LckS4PXMZ

— Courier Journal (@courierjournal) July 3, 2019