US Republican candidates target Muslim identity in midterm campaigns

Republican candidates are increasingly incorporating Muslim identity and Islam into their campaign rhetoric ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. In Michigan, Vice President JD Vance criticized Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, describing him as “very, very evil” following controversial remarks regarding a synagogue attack.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has challenged a Muslim-led development project and called for investigations into alleged attempts to establish “sharia courts,” a claim disputed by civil rights groups. Meanwhile, in Alabama, Senator Tommy Tuberville warned of “the enemy is inside the gates” in reference to radical Islam.

These political shifts occur as the Muslim American population has grown to approximately 5.5 million, or 1.6 percent of the US population. While critics argue this rhetoric unfairly targets a religious minority, Republicans maintain they are addressing legitimate concerns regarding security and extremism.

In New York, the political visibility of Muslim leaders has also drawn scrutiny. A petition signed by over 100,000 people has sought to prevent New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani from participating in 9/11 memorial ceremonies, citing his religious identity and political affiliations.