A national debate is unfolding over massive American flags flying outside Camping World locations across the U.S. While several cities are pushing back against the towering displays, Camping World’s CEO Marcus Lemonis is standing firm—saying the flags will stay put.
“The Flag Is Not Coming Down,” CEO Declares
Appearing on Fox & Friends, Lemonis addressed the ongoing legal challenges his company is facing. “This flag is not coming down,” he said. “This is the third city in the last several years that tried to sue us to take the flag down. Threatening jail, a variety of other fines.”
With more than 200 RV dealership locations across the country, Camping World has flown oversized American flags as a patriotic gesture for decades. But not everyone agrees with the scale of the displays.
Cities Challenge the Flag Displays
Local officials in Greenville, North Carolina, recently voted to pursue legal action over the size of the flag at their local Camping World. The flag, according to the city, is 3,200 square feet—about the size of a basketball court—and flies from a 130-foot-tall pole, nearly double the city’s allowable height.
Earlier in the week, Sevierville, Tennessee also filed a lawsuit, citing concerns over the height of the flagpole rather than the flag itself.
“Excessively tall structures can create visual distractions for motorists, pose potential safety hazards, and impact the scenic views that are a vital part of what makes Sevierville a destination,” the city said in a statement. “We are not, and never will be, against patriotism.”
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Greenville Responds: It’s About Code, Not Patriotism
Greenville’s Communications Manager, Brock Letchworth, emphasized that the city is not trying to take down the American flag, but instead wants it brought into compliance with local code regulations.
“This has never been about removing an American flag or the type of flag. It is about bringing the flag into compliance with City Code,” Letchworth stated. “We look forward to finding a resolution that will result in the continued display of the flag, but in a way that does not violate local laws.”
Lemonis: “This Is My Love Letter to America”
For Lemonis, the issue is deeply personal. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, he immigrated to Miami, Florida, and credits America for giving him the opportunity to pursue the American Dream.
“I’ve put a lot of sweat and tears into building this business for my people, for the country,” Lemonis said. “It’s my love letter to tell everybody how grateful I am this country provided me an opportunity where it didn’t have to. To make money, to be a capitalist, to provide jobs in America.”
He insists the flags are not a problem and have been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). He views the city complaints as an effort to control what private businesses can do on their property.
Plans to Fly Even More Flags
Despite legal threats, Lemonis says he’s not backing down. In fact, he plans to install more flags.
“My goal is to reach a million feet of flags across the country,” he said. “Then, maybe I’ll stop.”
