Muslim American groups have strongly criticised Republican lawmakers for organising congressional hearings that they believe are being used to target and demonise the Muslim community in the United States.
The latest hearing, titled “Sharia-Free America: Why Political Islam and Sharia Law are Incompatible with the US Constitution,” was held by a House Judiciary Subcommittee. Muslim organisations say such hearings are not about protecting American values but are instead weaponising fear against Muslim citizens.
The Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the US Council of Muslim Organisations condemned the move. They argued that these hearings portray Muslim Americans as perpetual outsiders and promote harmful stereotypes. “These anti-Sharia hearings are not about protecting the Constitution. They are about demonising Islam,” said Zainab Chaudry, CAIR’s Maryland director.
Republicans, who control both chambers of Congress, insist the hearings are necessary to counter what they call radical political Islam. Representative Chip Roy stated that radicals pushing political Islam want to replace American culture and political order rather than coexist with it.
However, critics including Democrats point out there is no evidence that mainstream Muslim groups in America are trying to impose Sharia law. They describe the hearings as unnecessary distractions that attack religious liberty and revive old conspiracy theories.
Muslim rights advocates have highlighted a worrying rise in Islamophobia. CAIR reported a record 8,683 anti-Muslim complaints in 2025. A recent study also found a sharp increase in anti-Muslim statements by Republican officials since early 2025.
Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin called the hearings a political distraction. Several Republican governors have even labelled CAIR a “terrorist” organisation, a claim strongly rejected by Muslim civil rights groups.
As tensions continue, Muslim American organisations are urging lawmakers to focus on unity rather than division in American society.
