Florida Republican Candidate Advocates for Federal Ban on Muslim Immigration
A Republican candidate for governor in Florida is advocating for a sweeping, permanent federal ban on Muslim immigration, claiming that Islam is fundamentally at odds with American laws and values.
Paul Renner, who previously served as the Speaker of the Florida House and ran for governor last summer, made his proposal public during a press conference on Tuesday. He stated, “We must face the reality that Islam and this country are not compatible in the long term.” He further argued that Islam does not align with the American Constitution or the values of American life.
Renner emphasized the need to denaturalize and deport individuals linked to terrorism, tax fraud, or serious criminal convictions.
During the press event, which featured a “No Sharia Law” sign, Renner referenced a bill enacted by the Florida Legislature banning the use of certain foreign laws, including Sharia law, in state courts. “It’s obvious that U.S. law prevails in U.S. courts,” he remarked.
He also suggested halting funding to schools that promote what he described as Sharia law concepts.
Renner expressed intentions to introduce legislation that would classify the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist organizations. This aligns with an executive order from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, though a federal judge previously issued a restraining order on the designation, citing First Amendment concerns.
In his address, Renner pointed out a “recurring pattern of conflict and violence” post-9/11, mentioning a recent shooting at Old Dominion University that resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The shooter, Mohamed Beiler Jallow, was identified as a former Army National Guard member who had been convicted of supporting ISIS.
Renner concluded by asserting that while some individuals live peacefully in the U.S., the systemic issues continue to foster division and violence. “We have to be realistic about it and stop it to protect Americans,” he said, outlining his commitment to this issue as a primary responsibility for governors and elected leaders.
DeSantis is currently in his second term and is ineligible to run again in 2026. Meanwhile, President Trump has previously endorsed Congressman Byron Donald for the position.
