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Texas Governor Labels CAIR a Terrorist Organization Amid Rising Anti-Muslim Sentiment

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Greg Abbott designates the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a terrorist organization, signaling rising anti-Muslim sentiment among Texans.
In an ongoing Republican primary, incumbent Senator John Cornyn clashes with Attorney General Ken Paxton, accusing him of being "soft on radical Islam."
Paxton replies that Cornyn's attacks are desperate.
The dispute centers on a proposed Muslim-centered community near Dallas, drawing scrutiny from state officials.

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Story summary

Governor Greg Abbott designates the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a terrorist organization, signaling rising anti-Muslim sentiment among Texans.
In an ongoing Republican primary, incumbent Senator John Cornyn clashes with Attorney General Ken Paxton, accusing him of being "soft on radical Islam."
Paxton replies that Cornyn's attacks are desperate.
The dispute centers on a proposed Muslim-centered community near Dallas, drawing scrutiny from state officials.