Florida Palm Bay Council Censures Member Over Anti-Indian Deportation Calls

Chandler Langevin, a Palm Bay City Council member in Florida, faced widespread condemnation and was formally censured by the council after posting racist and xenophobic remarks on social media, calling for the mass deportation of Indian nationals. The censure restricts his ability to introduce agenda items, speak during council reports, and serve on city committees, reflecting a 3-2 council vote. His posts accused Indians of exploiting the U.S. financially and questioned their loyalty, sparking protests from residents, Indian American organizations, and national advocacy groups urging his removal, including calls to Governor Ron DeSantis. Republican officials at various levels distanced themselves from Langevin, emphasizing that his views do not represent the party. Langevin defended his statements as exercising free speech and initiated legal action citing First Amendment rights, while critics warned his rhetoric echoes dangerous historical hate speech. The controversy highlights tensions over immigration and ethnic relations in the U.S., with Langevin's remarks stirring significant community and political backlash.