Texas Democratic Party Condemns Abbott and Paxton’s Fear-Driven Actions Targeting Muslim Communities
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas – The Texas Democratic Party strongly condemns the discriminatory rhetoric and legal actions being advanced by Gov. Greg Abbott, U.S. Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton against Muslim communities in Texas. Recent lawsuits and investigations targeting a planned residential development formerly known as EPIC City — and other actions against Muslim organizations — are being justified with unfounded claims about “Sharia law” and religious extremism, despite no credible evidence that Sharia Law has been imposed anywhere in Texas. Such fear-based politics have real consequences for families, neighbors, and civil rights in our state.
These actions not only undermine the constitutional right to freedom of religion, but they also continue a long-standing habit of our Republican leadership stoking xenophobia for political gain. When immigrants and the border ceased to be winning issues, Republicans pivoted to new hate-filled rhetoric: attacking those who practice Islam— including lawsuits from the attorney general’s office and statements that equate religious identity with danger — without substantiated basis. This has become the norm for our Republican leaders: promoting hate and division rather than addressing the real needs of Texans across the state.
We stand with Muslim Texans and all faith communities who contribute to the rich fabric of our state. We call on Abbott, Cornyn, and Paxton to end these discriminatory actions and to focus instead on our state’s real problems with solutions that unite our state and respect the dignity of every Texan.
About the Texas Democratic Party
Founded in 1846, Texas Democrats continue the march toward re-building a state that acts upon its beliefs - fair wages, affordable housing, universal childcare, a right to accessible and affordable healthcare, and safe communities. A fair shot for all - that’s what drove our Texas forefathers to build this great state, and that is what drives us today. A belief that no matter who you are, what you look like, where you come from, or who you love - if you work hard in Texas, you can make it. Texas Democrats have never shied away from big, bold ideas. From Lyndon B. Johnson to Henry B. Gonzalez to Barbara Jordan to Ann Richards and today’s Democratic champions, Texas Democrats will fight to uphold the landmark programs, policies, and institutions that make Texas work for all Texans. For more information go to: https://www.texasdemocrats.org
