Rep. John Gillette’s recent tirade against Muslims is not only deeply offensive—it’s dangerous. In a series of public comments and social media posts, Gillette called Muslims “f**ing savages,” labeled them “terrorists,” and dismissed Islamophobia as a hoax. He doubled down by smearing Muslim community organizations, promoting false conspiracy theories, and suggesting immigrants who practice Islam should be sent back to “sht hole” countries.

This kind of language has no place in Arizona’s government—or anywhere in public life. Gillette’s remarks aren’t isolated slips of the tongue. They are part of a broader, well-documented pattern of anti-Muslim hate, and they echo rhetoric that has historically led to real-world violence—including attacks on mosques, murders, and mass shootings across the country.

Elected officials have a responsibility to lead with integrity and represent all of their constituents, regardless of faith. Instead, Rep. Gillette is using his platform to sow fear and division, dehumanizing a religious minority that's part of Arizona’s population. His statements undermine the safety of Muslim Americans and erode the values of religious freedom and equal representation that our state is supposed to uphold.

We, the undersigned, call on the Arizona House of Representatives to formally censure and remove Rep. John Gillette for his repeated use of hate speech and dangerous disinformation. We urge House Speaker Steve Montenegro, House Majority Leader Michael Carbone, and the full legislative body to uphold their oaths of office and send a clear message: Bigotry has no place in Arizona lawmaking.

If left unchecked, this kind of rhetoric doesn’t just hurt feelings—it puts lives at risk. The Arizona Legislature must act now to protect our communities, preserve the dignity of the office, and reject the normalization of hate.

Sign this petition if you believe that hateful extremism has no place in public office.

Photo by Gage Skidmore