Texas Governor Calls for Investigations into Islamic Groups
Greg Abbott, the Republican Governor of Texas, recently initiated calls for investigations into certain entities that may be bypassing state or federal laws to advocate for Islamic norms. This was first mentioned during an episode of a Glenn Beck program.
On Tuesday, Abbott formally designated the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal organizations. This classification means that individuals associated with these groups could face serious penalties, and their affiliates will be barred from purchasing land in Texas.
In a statement sent to Blaze News, CAIR criticized Abbott’s move as “defamatory and lawless.”
“The Constitution’s religious protections do not allow religious courts to sidestep state or federal law by simply dressing in robes and claiming authority,”
Continuing his stance, Abbott stated on Wednesday that he is determined to prevent the implementation of Sharia law in Texas. He mentioned concerns regarding some legal entities in Texas, particularly in Collin and Dallas Counties, which might be acting as legal courts staffed by supposed judges issuing rulings based on Islamic principles.
Abbott’s statement read, “The Constitution’s protections for religion do not grant religious courts the right to bypass established laws merely by adopting a specific appearance or espousing views contrary to Western standards.” He urged investigations into groups allegedly trying to unlawfully enforce Sharia law in Texas, asserting that legal matters in the state should be adjudicated according to American law, which is founded on the principles of American due process, not Sharia law.
Beck acknowledged that Abbott’s request for an investigation would need collaboration from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the attorney general’s office. He expressed support for Abbott’s actions, saying, “A letter will be dispatched later today; this is a significant move by the governor.”
Abbott has also sent letters to the North Texas District Attorney and Sheriff, the Texas Attorney General, and the Texas DPS regarding the matter.
In his letter, Abbott underscored that the First Amendment provides wide latitude for religious institutions to manage their affairs but emphasized that establishing a court to replace a legal system is distinctly different.
