WASHINGTON (AP) -- Anti-Muslim rhetoric from some Republicans in Congress intensified this week against the backdrop of the Iran war, with multiple lawmakers -- including one who said "Muslims don't belong in American society" -- drawing condemnation from Democrats for their remarks but little pushback from GOP leaders.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Anti-Muslim rhetoric from some Republicans in Congress intensified this week against the backdrop of the Iran war, with multiple lawmakers -- including one who said "Muslims don't belong in American society" -- drawing condemnation from Democrats for their remarks but little pushback from GOP leaders.

The Republican Party could jeopardize recent gains with Muslim voters as a rise in anti‑Muslim rhetoric from GOP figures risks fracturing a fragile political alliance ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, experts have warned.