Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has taken bold action by officially labeling the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations. This declaration, outlined in Executive Order 25-244, aims to ensure the safety and security of Floridians.
In announcing the order, DeSantis stated, “EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY Florida is designating the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist organizations.” The Governor directed state agencies to take all lawful measures to prevent illegal activities associated with these groups. This includes denying any privileges or resources to individuals linked to them. The urgency of this move is clear… immediate preventative action validates the seriousness of the Governor’s intention.
Along with the order, DeSantis mentioned ongoing legislative efforts in Florida. He said, “Members of the FL Legislature are crafting legislation to stop the creep of sharia law, and I hope that they codify these protections for Floridians against CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood in their legislation.” The emphasis on protecting Floridians reflects a commitment to preventing any influence from organizations the state deems harmful.
This action is not isolated. Similar steps have been taken across the country. Texas Governor Greg Abbott designated the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR as foreign terrorist and transnational criminal organizations in November. This designation prevents these groups from acquiring land in Texas and empowers the Attorney General to pursue legal actions against them. Abbott described the goals of these groups as a threat to the state, highlighting, “The Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR have long made their goals clear: to forcibly impose Sharia law and establish Islam’s ‘mastership of the world.’”
Even at the federal level, the implications of the Governor’s actions resonate. In November, former President Trump signed an Executive Order which began the process of designating specific chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations. This order, rooted in federal legal frameworks, underscores a wider national concern regarding these entities.
DeSantis’s decision aligns with heightened scrutiny of groups associated with the Muslim Brotherhood. The RAIR Foundation, for instance, is raising awareness about what it calls the “expanding Muslim Brotherhood dynasty” within Florida. This framing suggests ongoing vigilance is necessary to address perceived threats.
In summary, DeSantis’s designation of CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood is a significant move aimed at safeguarding Floridians from what the state considers potential dangers. His call for immediate actions and legislative measures indicates a determined effort to counter any influence these organizations may have in Florida.
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