Religious leaders debate Sharia law and political influence in the U.S

At the Family Research Council’s 2026 Pray Vote Stand Summit, speakers and attendees discussed the influence of Islam and Sharia law within the United States. Pastor Shahram Hadian, an Iranian Christian convert, warned against the perceived political embrace of Islam, citing the oppressive nature of the Iranian theocracy as a cautionary example.

Debates regarding the compatibility of Sharia law with the U.S. Constitution were central to the discussion. While some religious leaders, such as Shaykh Uthman ibn Farooq in Texas, argue that Muslims can adhere to Sharia while remaining within constitutional rights, critics express concern over potential legal and cultural dominance.

The tension was highlighted by recent political developments, including a Michigan Senate race involving candidate Abdul El-Sayed, who faced criticism for not unequivocally condemning the Iranian regime. Former Congresswoman Michele Bachmann also urged Americans to address what she described as the push for Sharia law dominance.