A New Jersey town council is facing significant backlash after a resident was removed from a meeting for displaying an American flag, prompting accusations of First Amendment violations and a subsequent apology from the council president. The incident, which unfolded in Edison, New Jersey, began with the implementation of a new rule prohibiting "props," including the U.S. Constitution and flags, during public comment periods.

Joel Bassoff, a resident and attorney, was escorted out by police after holding a small American flag in protest. This action sparked outrage among attendees, who argued the rule infringed upon their First Amendment rights. Vice President of the Edison Board of Education, Joe Romano, described the atmosphere as "shocked" when Council President Nishith Patel ordered Bassoff's removal.

The incident drew attention from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), which is considering legal action against the council. Following the widespread criticism, Patel issued a statement claiming the council "never, nor will we ever ban the American flag," attributing the incident to a misunderstanding. Mayor Sam Joshi also released a statement on Instagram echoing Patel's apology.

However, the apology hasn't quelled the controversy. Another resident, Russ Azarello, also challenged the rule while holding several small flags. He questioned how holding the flag could be disruptive and asserted his right to freedom of speech. The township attorney defended the rule, arguing that waving items could be distracting and that the intention was to prevent deliberate disruptions. Azarello, along with Councilman Richard Brescher, who voted against the ordinance, dismissed Patel's apology as disingenuous.

Brescher criticized the ordinance as "un-American and unconstitutional" and called for its repeal. He accused the mayor and council of attempting to silence the public and maintain a lack of transparency. Romano agreed, suggesting the ordinance has exacerbated hostility in council meetings rather than restoring decorum. The ordinance, intended to address disruptions such as a man dressed as a bong and individuals wearing masks, has become a point of contention, with some residents describing the meetings as a "three-ring circus."