US Senate turns down ban on flag burning

The motion, backed by 66 votes, fell one vote short of the two-thirds majority needed to pass a constitutional amendment. Thirty-four senators voted against it.

Backed by President George W. Bush, the measure had been promoted by the Republican majority as it tries to rally its conservative base ahead of key congressional elections in November.

Opponents of the measure said flag burning is an expression of free speech that is guaranteed by the US Bill of Rights, and which must be protected.

But the leader of Senate Republicans, Bill Frist, said the vote was a defeat for the US flag itself and the patriotic American spirit it represents.

"'Old Glory' lost today," Frist said after the vote.