New Berlin Mayor social media controversy

New Berlin Mayor Dave Ament has faced intense scrutiny and calls for his resignation following the sharing of controversial content on his personal social media accounts.

Initial backlash emerged after Ament reposted content described by community leaders and the Wisconsin Muslim Journal as Islamophobic, sexist, and anti-Black. Ament initially responded by stating his personal activity did not represent the official position of the city and announced he would step back from social media to reflect.

The situation escalated as further posts surfaced, including a message claiming that voting for a Muslim in elected office constitutes being a “traitor.” During a New Berlin Common Council meeting on August 25, residents publicly condemned the posts. The Council prepared a resolution to formally condemn the mayor’s actions and indicated they might consider formal processes to remove him from office.

Ament issued an apology during the meeting, stating, “I take full responsibility for sharing them. I unfortunately, did not take into account how these inappropriate posts could be insulting, offensive, and hurtful.” He subsequently left the meeting, which drew additional criticism from residents.