Local

Vendor at Biketoberfest faces scrutiny over selling Nazi merchandise

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — A vendor at Biketoberfest is facing some backlash after briefly selling hats embellished with Nazi symbols.

Biketoberfest is an annual festival that draws thousands of bikers to Daytona Beach in October.

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The woman said she considered them a tribute to World War II veterans who helped defeat the Germans.

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The hats were emblazoned with swastikas and a skull-and-bones logo used by the Nazi SS.

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The vendor stated that she sold the same merchandise at other bike rallies around the county without complaint.

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A local Jewish group expressed concern, saying people have abused their First Amendment rights to spread propaganda.

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The Associated Press contributed to this article.