U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) speaks with Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ), as Republican lawmakers struggle to pass U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping spending and tax bill, on Capitol Hill, in Washington, D.C., U.S., July 3, 2025. REUTERS/Annabelle Gordon
(Washington, DC) – Comments from Tennessee Congressman Andy Ogles are drawing sharp backlash after he said Muslims “don’t belong in American society,” remarks made shortly after authorities announced the arrest of two suspects in an alleged bombing plot near Gracie Mansion in New York City.
The Republican lawmaker’s comments quickly ignited controversy across social media and political circles, with critics accusing him of promoting religious discrimination in the aftermath of a terrorism investigation.
According to posts and statements attributed to Ogles, the congressman also referred to pluralism as a “lie,” suggesting that different cultures and belief systems cannot successfully coexist within American society.
The remarks came shortly after law enforcement officials revealed that two suspects had been arrested in connection with an alleged bomb plot in Manhattan that prosecutors said was inspired by ISIS ideology. Authorities said the suspects were allegedly planning an attack that could have been “bigger than the Boston Marathon bombing,” though officials confirmed the plot was disrupted before anyone was injured.
Ogles’ comments sparked immediate pushback from political opponents, civil rights advocates, and some fellow lawmakers, who argued the statement unfairly targeted an entire religious group.
Supporters of the congressman, however, defended the remarks as a warning about extremist ideology following the alleged terror plot.
The controversy adds to ongoing national debates over immigration, religious freedom, and domestic security, particularly in the wake of terrorism-related arrests in major U.S. cities.
As of now, Ogles has not issued any clarification or walked back the comments.
The situation continues to generate strong reactions online as the investigation into the alleged New York City terror plot remains ongoing.
