Rep. Ogles Draws Condemnation for Anti-Muslim Remarks

U.S. Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee drew widespread condemnation on Monday after posting on social media that Muslims do not belong in American society and describing pluralism as a lie. The remarks, made on the platform X, came days after authorities in New York City arrested two men accused of throwing improvised explosive devices at participants in an anti-Islam protest near the mayor's residence.

The incident unfolded on Saturday outside Gracie Mansion in Manhattan, where about 20 protesters gathered in opposition to Islam, organized by right-wing activist Jake Lang. The demonstration drew a larger group of around 125 counterprotesters supporting Islamic causes. Amid the dueling rallies, authorities say Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi hurled makeshift bombs at the anti-Islam group. The devices did not explode and caused no injuries, but New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated they had the potential to inflict serious harm or fatalities.

Balat and Kayumi, both in their 20s, face federal charges of attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. The FBI and NYPD are investigating the...