Palm Bay Councilman responds to controversial comments he made about Muslims in America
Councilman doubles down on controversial remarks about Islam
A Palm Bay councilman is under fire from the public for comments he made on social media about Muslims in America. At Thursday's city council meeting, several residents spoke out against Councilman Chandler Langevin.
PALM BAY, Fla. - A Palm Bay councilman is under fire from the public for controversial comments he made on social media about Muslims in America.
Comments spark heated response during council meeting
What we know:
Palm Bay Councilman Chandler Langevin is facing public backlash over a social media post he made about Muslims in America.
Langevin was replying to State Sen. Randy Fine in a thread on X when he said, "…Islam exists for the sole purpose of conquering Christendom and ending Jewish people as well, and they do not belong in this great nation."
His post is sparking outrage among residents and local organizations.
During a city council meeting, multiple speakers condemned his remarks, but no official action was taken against him. Langevin defended his statement, saying it aligns with former President Donal Trump’s views and that immigrants should adopt American ideals.
What we don't know:
It remains unclear whether the city council will take future action against Langevin or if there will be any formal consequences for his statements.
The backstory:
The controversy began when Langevin responded to a post by Randy Fine on X a few weeks ago. His comment suggested that Islam’s purpose is to eliminate Christianity and Judaism and that Muslims "do not belong" in the U.S. The post quickly drew criticism from residents, community leaders, and fellow council members.
While some council members expressed disappointment, neither the mayor nor the deputy mayor took direct action.
What they're saying:
Community members voiced their anger at the council meeting:
"That’s the most asinine thing I’ve ever heard, especially out of a local commissioner," said a speaker named Kristine.
"This is appalling to read these kinds of comments from a councilmember in Palm Bay, Florida," said a speaker named David.
"I‘m here to call out dangerous rhetoric, divisive and un-American rhetoric of certain councilmembers," said a speaker named Anthony.
"You should be ashamed to your core," said a speaker named Kelly.
Fatima Saied, executive director of the Muslim Women’s Organization, criticized Langevin’s statement, as well.
"I have never had any issue with Christianity, Judaism. I’m part of so many interfaith efforts in this community. I think when people say things like that, it really undermines some incredible work to build bridges and build relationships."
Saied says she’s not surprised but still disappointed.
"It is exhausting to have to justify my right to exist in my home," she added.
Langevin stood by his remarks.
"The problem is, there’s many cultures — whether it be some parts of Islam, the Communist Chinese — where they just have a political system that is in direct contradiction to our Constitution," he said.
When FOX 35’s Esther Bower asked Langevin, "Do you think Muslims should be in this nation?" he replied, "Anybody that respects our constitutional republic has a place in this nation, but again, at the end of the day, you have to believe in our Constitution to be here."
Some councilmembers did say they were disappointed to see the statement put out in the community. Mayor Medina said it came out wrong. Deputy Mayor Jaffe said he was embarrassed.
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The Source: This story was written based on information shared by Palm Bay Councilman Chandler Langevin, Palm Bay city leaders and residents, and Fatima Saied, executive director of the Muslim Women’s Organization.