Texas Rep. Chip Roy proposes bill to designate CAIR as terrorist organization

Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, who is running for attorney general in his home state, has unveiled new federal legislation that would designate the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a terrorist organization.In an interview with the Just the News Not Noise TV program, the Texas Republican said he introduced the “Designating Hamas Affiliates in America Act of 2026,” a bill that would classify CAIR as a specially designated global terrorist organization. 
Roy said such a designation would allow the federal government to freeze the group’s assets, prohibit Americans from interacting with it, and revoke its nonprofit tax-exempt status.
“We’ve got to go on offense,” Roy said, accusing CAIR of facilitating terrorism while operating “under the guise of a nonprofit.” 
CAIR has previously denied allegations of ties to terrorism and has described such claims as politically motivated.
Roy pointed to prior efforts he has undertaken, including holding hearings as chairman of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on The Constitution and Limited Government.
Roy also highlighted his role in establishing the “Sharia Free America Caucus,” alongside Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, saying the group has grown to more than 60 members.
The legislator framed his latest proposal as part of a broader effort to confront what he described as extremist ideologies within the United States. He cited actions taken by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, and pointed to designations of CAIR by foreign governments, including the United Arab Emirates, as justification for stronger federal action.
Roy also credited President Donald Trump for prioritizing efforts to target groups he views as linked to Islamic extremism.
Critics of similar past efforts have argued that designating a U.S.-based nonprofit as a terrorist organization would raise constitutional questions, particularly involving First Amendment protections.
Roy acknowledged the challenges but argued that federal authorities have been too hesitant to act. 
“You cannot win a war that you do not acknowledge exists,” he said, describing the issue as a national security concern.

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