A sitting member of Congress declared that “Muslims don’t belong in American society.”

Rep. Andy Ogles made that statement publicly and has not withdrawn it. This was not a policy disagreement. It was a sweeping attack on millions of Americans based solely on their religion.

The First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion. There is no religious test for who belongs in America. Muslim Americans serve in our armed forces, work in our hospitals, run businesses, teach in schools, and strengthen communities across the country. They are part of this nation.

When a member of Congress says an entire faith group does not belong, it contradicts the Constitution they swore to uphold. It fuels division and signals that some Americans are less worthy of belonging than others.

Public office carries responsibility. Words from elected officials carry weight. When those words undermine constitutional principles and target a religious minority, there must be consequences.

We call on Rep. Andy Ogles to resign from Congress. If he cannot uphold the fundamental principle of religious freedom for all Americans, he should not continue serving in the People’s House.

America’s strength lies in its constitutional protections — for everyone.

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