Watch CBS News

Wis. Mayor Faces Backlash For Calling President Obama A Muslim

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The mayor of Superior, Wisconsin is facing fierce backlash after he called President Barack Obama a Muslim.

Protesters packed Superior City Hall on Monday to demand an apology and his resignation.

Last week, Mayor Bruce Hagen also said Obama is destroying the U.S. democracy.

The controversial comments drew international attention. Many people from outside the community joined Superior residents on Monday in protest.

"What truly hurts, Mr. Hagen, is not once in the days following your initial comments, when you continued your denigration, not once did you stop and consider the ramifications for the members of this community," Superior resident Kym Young said.

The mayor told local reporters that he is accepting responsibility for his comments.

He's planning to meet with representatives of the local Muslim community when he returns from his holiday vacation.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.