Saturday, October 3, 2026
A $50,000 settlement from the City of Long Beach has been rejected by Michael Wasserman, leading to the continuation of a years-long lawsuit over Wasserman's decision to display multiple flags on his vehicles and residence.
"With the court's help, the parties reached a settlement," wrote Howard Miller, legal representation for the City of Long Beach, in a May 1 letter to Judge James Wicks of the Eastern District. "Counsel for the parties then agreed to the specific language of a written settlement agreement. Unfortunately, Mr. Wasserman appears to be refusing to sign the settlement agreement."
Lawyers for both parties are due to return to court this week to continue seeking a resolution.
In March 2021, Wasserman was issued a summons from the Long Beach Police Department for displaying multiple flags on his vehicle while on public roads. In May 2021, Wasserman filed a $25 million lawsuit against the city; the Long Beach Police Department; and several individual police officers including Ronald Walsh, Long Beach police commissioner at the time. At a March 2026 city council meeting, councilmembers unanimously voted to approve a $50,000 payment to settle the lawsuit.
Wasserman asserts that his First Amendment right to free speech was infringed. Wasserman's attorney, Andrew Campanelli, has said that his client believes he was selectively prosecuted due to the political messages displayed on his flags, not due to their location.
The city maintains that the summons was based on a city ordinance regarding public signs and distractions potentially contributing to traffic accidents. Wasserman has attached more than 20 politically themed flags to his three vehicles parked on East Broadway, as well as displaying inflatable accessories on his street-facing balcony.
Because the litigation is ongoing, Corporation Counsel for the city was unable to comment on any details of the case.
