Olive Branch, Mississippi

Olive Branch, Mississippi Mayor Ken Adams is facing online backlash after saying he would not lower the city flag to half-staff in honor of Dolly Parton, who died August 25 at age 80. In a Facebook post that drew more than 2,000 comments, Adams praised Parton's contributions but argued that half-staff honors should be reserved for military heroes, fallen first responders, presidents and other major national leaders, not celebrities. He said the decision for a city should rest with its mayor, distinct from choices made by the president or governor.

President Donald Trump and Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves had ordered U.S. and state flags flown at half-staff for a week following Parton's death, and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee similarly ordered flags lowered statewide and lit the State Capitol pink in her memory. Most commenters on Adams's post disagreed with his stance, citing Parton's charitable work, including her Imagination Library literacy program and support for veterans and first responders. Adams maintained his position was not about disrespecting Parton or politics, but about preserving the significance of the honor.