Rep. Andre Carson, the first self-declared Muslim to be appointed to the House Intelligence Committee, said he’s aware of some of the suspicious eyes cast his way, but that he doesn’t let it interfere with his work — that he “loves helping people,” he said.
The Indiana Democrat, in an interview with The Hill, said that he’s heard from Republicans, pastors and other political and religious leaders and that most wish him well on his service. But he also said that past allegations of his ties to radical organizations — including a check received from the Council of American-Islamic relations — still shadows.
“I think some of [the criticism] is to be expected,” he told The Hill, adding that he does see his appointment to the Intelligence Committee as somewhat of a “watermark” moment. He went on: “I personally love [intelligence] work. I love keeping people safe.”
Mr. Carson also said he maintains a tight relationship with New York Rep. Peter King, who has called for tighter surveillance on mosques and the Muslim community.
He’s also said that America needs to reach out the Muslim community to aid with the fight against terrorism.
In a previous interview with CNN, Mr. Carson said: “I think it’s clear that we will never win the war on national terrorism, or even global terrorism for that matter, without getting help from Muslims, getting help from Sikhs, getting help from nontheists.”
Mr. Carson was appointed to the Intelligence Committee a couple of weeks ago.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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