In an era where patriotism is often sidelined for political correctness, Marcus Lemonis, CEO of Camping World and star of *The Profit,* is unapologetically standing his ground—again. The controversy? A colossal American flag proudly flying above Camping World’s Greenville, North Carolina, dealership, despite local zoning officials claiming it’s far too large and in violation of city regulations.
The new flag, raised in October, is an awe-inspiring sight, dwarfing nearby structures as it waves boldly from a towering 120-foot flagpole—nearly double the height allowed by city laws. Officials argue the flag is a staggering 15 times larger than permitted, but Lemonis is having none of it.
“The flag is not coming down,” declared Lemonis in a social media post, adding defiantly, “You can fine me all you want, City of Greenville, North Carolina. #NoAmericanFlagIsTooBig.”
Since Wednesday, the city has issued six citations, racking up $1,150 in fines. But Lemonis, a proud immigrant turned U.S. citizen, isn’t budging. For him, the oversized flag isn’t just fabric; it’s a deeply personal symbol of freedom, opportunity, and gratitude to a country that welcomed him.
“This is symbolism about how we feel about this country,” Lemonis said, reflecting on his own journey. “I happen to be an immigrant. I was given the blessing of being able to enter this country and become a citizen, and I’m grateful for it.”
This isn’t the first time Camping World has gone to battle over its patriotic displays. Just last year, a similar controversy erupted in Stockton, California, when local officials demanded the removal of another massive American flag due to safety concerns over the flagpole’s stability. Lemonis refused to back down, stating that he would only reconsider if the flag posed a genuine threat to public safety or air traffic. In the end, officials relented, allowing the flag to remain.
But Greenville’s City Council is proving more resistant, recently denying Camping World’s request for a permit to keep the flag. Officials claim the company knowingly broke zoning laws, warning that fines will continue to pile up daily. The council has also ordered the removal of the towering flagpole. Still, no court action has been taken to enforce these penalties.
Lemonis, however, remains undeterred. His firm stance has struck a chord with many Americans who feel that displays of national pride are under attack. Social media has lit up with support for the CEO’s refusal to take down the flag, with many praising him for defending the values that make America exceptional.
For Lemonis, this fight is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Growing up in Miami, Florida, his family’s car dealership proudly displayed the largest flagpole in the area. “It’s been part of my life since I was a little child,” he said, adding that the flag represents a lifetime of gratitude for the opportunities America has provided.
As fines accumulate and Greenville officials dig in their heels, Lemonis’s message remains clear: patriotism is non-negotiable. In an age where many shy away from standing up for the red, white, and blue, Marcus Lemonis is proving that true American pride knows no bounds—even when it’s 120 feet tall.
