The Republican mayor of Olive Branch, Mississippi, Ken Adams, has decided against lowering the town's U.S. flags to half-staff in honor of the late country music superstar Dolly Parton. Adams stated on Facebook that such an honor should be reserved for "truly extraordinary circumstances" to maintain its significance.
Adams' decision follows an order from President Donald Trump to lower U.S. flags nationwide for a week to commemorate Parton, who died on August 25 at the age of 80. Trump described Parton as "one of the greatest" on his Truth Social platform.
In his statement, Adams acknowledged Trump's order but asserted a mayor's right to make decisions for their city. He explained his belief that he was elected to lead with conviction, not simply to follow orders. "Sometimes preserving the meaning of an honor means being selective about when we use it," Adams wrote.
Parton, an 11-time Grammy winner, remained largely apolitical throughout her career. The practice of lowering flags to half-staff has traditionally been reserved for political figures, military heroes, or national tragedies. However, this practice has not always been strictly adhered to. In 2003, then-President George W. Bush ordered flags lowered for comedian Bob Hope, and more recently, Trump ordered flags lowered for right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.
Adams' Facebook post drew a significant number of comments, with many users criticizing his decision. Critics argued that Parton's extensive philanthropy, particularly her Imagination Library program, which provides books to children, merited the honor. Some commenters suggested that educated citizens pose a threat to politicians, implying Adams' stance was an attempt to exert power.
Conversely, some commenters defended Adams' position, arguing that fame does not equate to national service and that the flag should primarily honor those who held public trust or died in service. Dolly Parton, who was 80 at the time of her death, was widely beloved. In her home state of Tennessee, plans are underway to rename Nashville International Airport in her honor, with Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and the airport announcing their intent last week.