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Palm Bay, FL - Palm Bay City Councilman Chandler Langevin is facing widespread criticism after social media posts he made about the Indian-American community drew public outrage.
According to WESH, Langevin allegedly posted remarks on X, formerly Twitter, stating, "There’s not a single Indian that cares about the United States" and, in response to a Homeland Security post about a fatal crash involving someone reportedly in the country illegally, wrote, "Deport every Indian immediately."
The controversy prompted a large turnout at a city council meeting, where residents demanded that Langevin apologize, resign, or be suspended.
Speakers expressed concern that his statements were disrespectful to Palm Bay, Brevard County, and the state of Florida.
State leaders from both parties condemned Langevin’s posts.
Republican Representative Randy Fine described the remarks as "repulsive" and "racist," while Democratic House Leader Fentrice Driskell called them "ignorant, wrong, and anti-American."
Both emphasized that public officials must maintain standards of conduct consistent with their positions.
Langevin responded on X, stating that he considers Indian Americans to be Americans and that his comments were directed at illegal immigration, not the community itself.
He also said he would not resign, indicating he plans to complete his three-year term.
At the conclusion of the council meeting, the Palm Bay City Council voted four to one to send a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis requesting Langevin’s removal from office.
The council cited concerns over misfeasance and incompetence, noting that while Langevin has free speech rights, the manner in which he exercised them raises questions about his suitability for public office.