Controversy Surrounds Rep. Andy Ogles' Anti-Muslim Remarks Following NYC Protests

On March 9, 2026, Representative Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) made headlines by declaring on social media that "Muslims don’t belong in American society," asserting that "pluralism is a lie." This statement followed violent protests in New York City, where an anti-Islam rally organized by Jake Lang, a pardoned January 6 insurrectionist, was met with counterprotests. The protests escalated to violence, resulting in the arrest of six individuals, two of whom were charged with throwing explosive devices, reportedly inspired by ISIS.

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The protests occurred outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who condemned the anti-Islam rally as rooted in "bigotry and racism." The situation intensified when two men were arrested for allegedly throwing ignited devices during the protests. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch indicated that the incident was being investigated as an "ISIS-inspired act of terrorism." Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of NYC, criticized the rally and the violence that ensued, emphasizing that such hate has no place in the city.

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In response to Mamdani's condemnation of the rally, Ogles suggested that the Department of Justice could deport the mayor, stating, "All they need to do is read his file." Ogles' remarks have drawn criticism from various quarters, including Edward Ahmed Mitchell, national deputy director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), who highlighted the double standards in political responses to anti-Muslim rhetoric compared to anti-Semitic statements. Mitchell stated, “If any member of Congress had declared that ‘Jews do not belong in America,’ that politician would rightfully face condemnation.”

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Ogles' comments have been met with significant backlash. Critics argue that his statements reflect a broader trend of Islamophobia among certain Republican lawmakers. Other members of Congress, such as Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) and former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, have also made inflammatory remarks about Muslims, contributing to a climate of hostility. CAIR has designated Ogles as an "anti-Muslim extremist," underscoring the seriousness of his rhetoric.

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While Ogles claims that the explosive devices were thrown by counterprotesters, NYPD officials have indicated that the suspects were indeed part of the anti-Islam demonstration. This discrepancy highlights the contentious nature of the events and the narratives surrounding them.

Latin Times

• “Muslims don’t belong in American society,” — Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn.

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• “ "Such hate has no place in New York City.” — Mayor Zohran Mamdani, D-NYC.

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• “The double standards and hypocrisy must end.” — Edward Ahmed Mitchell, CAIR.

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The controversy surrounding Ogles' remarks and the protests in New York City illustrates the ongoing tensions regarding Islamophobia and the political discourse surrounding religious diversity in America.

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