Texas Sharia Caucus Grows to 38 Members as Midterm Stakes Rise
State legislators formed the group in March, while local voters report increased pressure and a push for higher turnout ahead of the November 3 election.
By David Almasi ·
The number of members in the Texas state legislature’s “Sharia-free Texas Caucus” has reached 38 in the 150-seat chamber. The group was launched in March, following the creation of a similar congressional caucus by two Texas representatives in the same month.
The push for state-level action on Islamic law began with a platform adopted by the state Republican Party in June. Titled “Don’t Sharia my Texas,” the document outlines penalties for proponents of the practice. These include criminal punishment and disqualification from public, military, and law enforcement service. The platform also calls for denaturalisation and deportation.
Governor Greg Abbott addressed the issue at the Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas last month. He stated, “We are not waiting on Washington, DC. We will fully ban Sharia Law in Texas.” Senator Ted Cruz spoke at the same event, describing Sharia law as inconsistent with the Constitution and urging voters to stop it.
Local Muslim communities are responding to the political climate with targeted voter registration drives. Emran Gazi, president of the Islamic Society of Greater Houston, said the organization expanded its outreach this year. The society oversees more than 30 mosques in the Houston area. Gazi noted that the organization does not endorse specific candidates but urges members to vote their conscience.
Voters cite personal experiences of prejudice as a primary motivator. Mariam Ahmed, a 42-year-old physician, said she considered leaving the United States within the last two years. She stated, “I have a child. I don’t want him to be viewed as a terrorist.” Samir Nadjam, a 45-year-old lawyer, noted that children in schools often repeat comments heard at home, creating a difficult social environment.
The election of November 3 will determine the outcomes of several key races. Governor Abbott faces a challenge from Democrat Gina Hinojosa. Attorney General Ken Paxton is running for the U.S. Senate against Democrat James Talarico. Paxton has sued CAIR to force the group to stop operating in Texas, while CAIR Texas has sued Abbott on constitutional grounds.
Community organisers are focusing on local issues to energise voters. Sania Rahim, who works with the Coalition for Peace, Relief, and Equity, pointed to the Texas Board of Education’s recent approval of a high school curriculum. Critics say the curriculum focuses disproportionately on the concept of “radical Islam.” Sameeha Rizvi, a civic engagement organiser for CAIR, urged attendees at a local event to vote to make the state safer for their families.
