AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): Recent comments by Randy Fine, a Republican member of the United States Congress from Florida, about Muslims have triggered sharp political reactions nationwide and heightened tensions ahead of the upcoming elections.
According to reports, Fine wrote on social media, “If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one.” The remarks drew widespread condemnation from Democrats and even some Republicans.
Jennifer Jenkins, the Democratic candidate for Florida’s 6th Congressional District and Fine’s direct opponent in the general election, described the comments as “disgusting and un-American,” calling them an example of Islamophobia. She also labeled Fine “the most extreme and unstable member of Congress.”
Florida’s 6th Congressional District includes Flagler, Lake, Marion, Putnam, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. Jenkins, a former member of the Broward County School Board, said she has faced harassment and political pressure from Fine in recent years.
In a message posted on social media, she wrote, “Randy Fine is a bigot. Dehumanizing an entire religious community is disgusting and un-American. Leaders do not target entire communities and normalize hate.”
Stressing that the issue goes beyond partisan rivalry, Jenkins called on Congress to immediately remove Fine from office. “Congress cannot wait another minute to remove this person from power. If members of Congress can dehumanize entire communities without consequences, then what does accountability even mean?” she said.
While Jenkins emphasized that voters will ultimately decide in November, she argued that a symbolic reprimand would not be sufficient to halt what she described as Fine’s “pattern of rage and cruelty.”
Democrats say Fine’s recent remarks portrayed Muslims in a dehumanizing manner and have been met with broad national backlash. Among those calling for his resignation or disciplinary action are Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, and several members of Congress. Megyn Kelly, a media figure associated with conservative circles, also criticized the remarks.
Reports indicate that some Republicans in Florida have distanced themselves from Fine’s statements. However, there has so far been no sign of retraction or apology from the congressman.
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