Without a Border 'Invasion,' Texas G.O.P. Turns to an Old Enemy, Islam

Republican officials and candidates in Texas have shifted their rhetorical attack lines from the border fears that dominated recent elections to the state’s growing Muslim population, using language that echoes the aftermath of the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Campaign ads for Senator John Cornyn have touted his fight against "radical Islam," lawmakers created a "Sharia-Free America Caucus," and Governor Greg Abbott labeled one of the nation’s largest Muslim rights groups a terror organization. A "Save Texas from Radical Islam" dinner north of Dallas drew Steve Bannon, Glenn Beck and Geert Wilders, and the State Senate is weighing legislation requested by Lt.

Gov. Dan Patrick aimed at ensuring Texans "are never held under the heel of 'Sharia law.'" With warnings about the border losing traction, Republican strategists are searching for new issues to mobilize voters.

United States, Texas

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