Texas Governor Revokes Land Buying Rights for Two Muslim Groups in the State, Accusing Them of Terrorism

For years, Americans have voiced concerns over government watch lists that subject individuals to intense scrutiny and restrictionssometimes even preventing air travelwithout formal legal proceedings. Past reports have shown that FBI agents added people to the no-fly list to pressure them into becoming informants, and allegations have emerged that political opponents were targeted on TSA watchlists.

Now, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, an ally of former President Donald Trump, has designated two organizationsthe Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)as terrorist entities under state law. This move, taken without established safeguards, prohibits these groups from purchasing or acquiring land within Texas.

Land Purchase Restrictions and Legal Context

The designation, announced by Abbotts office on November 18, authorizes heightened enforcement against the organizations and their affiliates. Recent state legislation, approved by Abbott, restricts property purchases by entities and individuals from certain countries, including China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, as well as designated terrorist organizations. Abbott emphasized that hostile foreign actors should not have access to Texas land or infrastructure and warned of criminal penalties for violations.

Due Process Concerns

Critics argue that punishing groups without prior legal investigation violates due process. Abbott only instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety to investigate CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood two days after their designation, raising concerns about trial after sentence. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas warned that the law may infringe on First Amendment and Equal Protection rights by restricting economic participation based on nationality or political association.

Background on the Organizations

CAIR, based in Washington, D.C., states its mission is to promote understanding of Islam and protect civil rights, though it has faced accusations of supporting lobbying and protest activities contrary to U.S. interests. The Muslim Brotherhood, a transnational organization, has been linked to groups recognized as terrorist entities and is federally designated as such. Proving connections to the Brotherhood often requires detailed investigation.

Despite this, both organizations have been barred from land purchases in Texas without due process or the ability to appeal. Critics argue this sets a concerning precedent for how government power can be used to limit the freedoms of ideological opponents.

Legal Challenges and Wider Implications

CAIR and its allies have filed lawsuits to block the designation and related restrictions, highlighting that CAIR is a domestic organization with no proven criminal record. Legal advocates stress that Abbott's actions undermine constitutional protections and the principles of due process, calling the move unlawful and a threat to civil liberties.

The controversy underscores broader concerns about the politicization of government power, echoing past instances where agencies like the IRS and TSA were allegedly used to target opponents. Observers note that allowing officials to restrict rights based on accusations alone could create a dangerous precedent for the future.

Author: Maya Henderson