Story perspectives

Florida Congressman Faces Backlash for Anti-Muslim Remarks

2/18/2026

Center

Fine's Controversial Remarks

Florida Congressman Randy Fine (R-Fla.) sparked controversy by comparing Muslims to dogs in a social media post.
The remark drew condemnation from groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which called it dehumanizing and part of a pattern of anti-Muslim rhetoric.
California Governor Gavin Newsom demanded Fine's resignation, calling him a "racist slob."
Pro-Israel figures and Jewish organizations criticized Fine and urged censure; House Republican leadership has not acted.

Right

Jeffries Holds Fine Accountable

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said Democrats will hold Congressman Randy Fine accountable for his remarks about Muslims if they gain the House.
Fine's remarks, made in response to Palestinian activist Nerdeen Kiswani, drew criticism from Jeffries and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who called for his censure.
Censure resolutions have become a frequent political tool, reflecting rising Islamophobia and partisanship in the House.

History

Historical Context

The rise of anti-Muslim sentiment in the U.S. intensified during Donald Trump's presidency, particularly with the 2017 "Muslim Ban," which affected over 130 million people from several countries. The Council on American-Islamic Relations reported a staggering 91% increase in anti-Muslim incidents that year, reflecting a broader trend of Islamophobia that has been politically and socially entrenched since the post-9/11 era.

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Fine's Controversial Remarks

Florida Congressman Randy Fine (R-Fla.) sparked controversy by comparing Muslims to dogs in a social media post.
The remark drew condemnation from groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which called it dehumanizing and part of a pattern of anti-Muslim rhetoric.
California Governor Gavin Newsom demanded Fine's resignation, calling him a "racist slob."
Pro-Israel figures and Jewish organizations criticized Fine and urged censure; House Republican leadership has not acted.

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