Omaha has a new city councilman.

Ron Hug sworn in today, taking the seat of ousted Democrat Vinny Palermo, who has pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud and kickback charges.

But Hug's first day on the job, also came with controversy.

                                                                                                 [View our full video report above]

“I Ron Hug…”

Taking the oath of office from Chief Justice Mike Heavican, Omaha’s newest Councilman Ron Hug takes his post in the middle of a backlash. Several Hispanics in the predominately Hispanic South Omaha district charging racism, that one of two Hispanic candidates vying for the post were not selected.

Councilman Ron Hug, Omaha (D): “There are more friends of mine in the Latino community that I will continue to reach out to.”

The latest complaint is from South Omaha activist Ben Salazar telling the Department of Justice’s Civil Right Division in Washington that the council’s appointment process  is “strange” a “farce” arguing, “The Latino majority of District 4 was denied the right to due process…to select and/or vote for our next council representative.”

Immediately following last week’s vote, unanimously selecting Hug on the third ballot, City Council President Pete Festersen said this:

Pete Festersen, City Council President (D): “I feel we had a productive group process.”

But as we first reported LULAC, the League of United Latin American Citizens, is calling the council’s selection a “farce.”

Democrat Erik Servellon, who got three votes from the three Democrats, but no Republican votes, leaving him one vote short insisting, “For too long we've faced disinvestment, discrimination, racism…This vote was more of the same—a blatant slap in the face.”  

Councilman Brinker Harding, Omaha (R): “It’s understandable that supporters of those not selected, the other four candidates, maybe disappointed with the results. But it’s time to move on.” Harding adding its important for all involved to work together.                                              

Joe Jordan:  "Do you have any concerns that Ron Hug can represent a district that is majority Hispanic?" 

Council President Pete Festersen (D): "No, I think Ron knows the district well he's represented it for over 28 years. He's well versed in constituent issues and in city issues. I think he'll do a good job as well."

Joe Jordan, NCN: "You said you are going to run for election in two years."

Councilman Ron Hug, Omaha (D): "I like the way you didn't say reelection."

Joe Jordan: "I'm wondering if you think between now and then if you can put this racial issue behind you?"

Ron Hug: "I certainly hope so. I think a lot of people, and I've said this before, a lot of people don't know me. They don't know how many Latinos are around my Thanksgiving dinner table."

Joe Jordan: "How many are there?"

Ron Hug: "Most recent count, five or four, four.”