Texas Governor Abbott Declares CAIR and Muslim Brotherhood “Transnational Criminal Organizations”
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Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation on November 18, 2025, declaring the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as “transnational criminal organizations.” The move has sparked immediate condemnation from civil rights groups and legal challenges, with critics labeling it as discriminatory and reminiscent of ancient injustices.
Details of the Proclamation
The governor’s proclamation, available here, alleges ties between CAIR members and leaders and terrorist activities. Specific details regarding the evidence supporting these claims were not immediately available in initial reports, but the proclamation reportedly lists individuals associated with CAIR across the country.
Condemnation and Legal Challenges
The proclamation has drawn swift and strong criticism. Texas state Representative Ron Reynolds (D-Missouri City) denounced the action as “state-sanctioned discrimination,” stating, “This feels and looks like the Jim Crow era once again. When the government uses its powers to isolate a religious community, restrict property rights, and instill fear among innocent peopel, we are repeating one of the darkest chapters in American history.”
CAIR’s national organization has vowed to pursue legal action against Governor Abbott. In a statement posted on X (formerly twitter), CAIR asserted that Abbott is “an Israel-first politician who has spent months fueling anti-Muslim hysteria to smear American Muslims critical of the Israeli government.” the organization further stated that the governor’s claims are “defamatory” and “have no basis in fact or law.”
Understanding CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood
CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations) is a non-profit Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Founded in 1994, CAIR’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower the Muslim community. It frequently engages in legal advocacy, public education, and media outreach.
The Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational Islamist organization founded in Egypt in 1928. Its ideology combines Islamic principles with political activism. The organization has been the subject of controversy and has been designated as a terrorist organization by some countries, while others, including the United States, have not formally designated the entire organization as such, but have designated certain affiliated groups.
Potential Implications
The governor’s proclamation could have far-reaching consequences. Designating these organizations as “transnational criminal organizations” could lead to increased surveillance, restrictions on financial transactions, and potential legal challenges for individuals and organizations associated with them. Legal experts suggest the proclamation raises serious First Amendment concerns regarding freedom of speech and religion.
Key Takeaways:
* Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as “transnational criminal organizations.”
* The proclamation has been widely condemned as discriminatory and is facing legal challenges.
* CAIR is a prominent Muslim civil rights organization in the United States.
* The Muslim Brotherhood is a long-standing Islamist organization with a complex and controversial history.
* The proclamation raises significant legal and constitutional questions.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more data becomes available. The legal challenges and the specific evidence presented to support the governor’s claims will be crucial in determining the ultimate outcome of this controversial decision.