A heated debate unfolded in an Edison, New Jersey town council meeting as a resident was escorted out for waving an American flag. This incident stems from a recently enacted ordinance that restricts the use of "props," including the American flag and the U.S. Constitution, during public comment periods. The new rule also shortens the time residents have to address the council.

The ordinance, passed last week, sparked immediate backlash from residents who argued that it infringes upon their First Amendment rights. During a five-hour meeting on November 25th, community members voiced their concerns, describing the rule as a "disgusting" attempt to stifle public discourse.

Edison resident and lawyer Joel Bassoff challenged the council directly while holding a small American flag. He warned of potential legal repercussions for restricting residents' freedom of expression. Council President Nishith Patel responded by issuing a warning to Bassoff and subsequently ordering his removal from the meeting.

The incident, captured on video, shows police officers approaching Bassoff after Patel declared his speaking time forfeited. As officers escorted Bassoff out, audience members voiced their disapproval, shouting "shame on you." Bassoff maintained that he had a right to remain and listen to the proceedings.

The controversial ordinance, O.2239-2024, aims to restore order to town council meetings that have recently been disrupted. In a previous incident, a man dressed in a costume was removed from the podium. While the ordinance doesn't explicitly ban the American flag or the Constitution, Council President Patel clarified that any prop deemed disruptive would be prohibited at his discretion.

This incident highlights the ongoing tension between maintaining order in public meetings and protecting citizens' First Amendment rights. The decision to classify the American flag as a disruptive "prop" has drawn criticism and raised questions about the boundaries of free expression in local government settings.