NYT: Under Attack as Muslims in the U.S. (from Bachmann and tea party types)
In some European nations, it was the debate over women wearing the veil that set off the attacks. Now in the United States, where pivotal elections are looming, accusations against Muslims have reached a new level. It seems to some that the days of McCarthyism are back.
Representative Michele Bachmann, a Minnesota Republican and a member of the Tea Party movement, claimed in a recent letter that the Muslim Brotherhood had gained influence over the U.S. State Department. She cited Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clintons longtime aide Huma Abedin as the reason, questioning Ms. Abedins loyalty. One of the few Muslims in a prominent government position, Ms. Abedin is a trusted adviser who is known to the public; many have defended her against Mrs. Bachmanns charge.
In Tennessee, Samar Ali, a White House fellow, was accused by members of the Tea Party of financing Islamic terrorism. One of the main reasons for this allegation was Ms. Alis in-depth knowledge of Islamic banking practices.
Michele Bachmann and some people of the Tea Party movement the fact that we are Muslim means we are disloyal to our country and have hidden agendas, Ms. Sarsour said. ... Michele Bachmann, Peter King and their colleagues are trying to further marginalize Muslim Americans from civic engagement and political life, she said. I have news for them: Its not working.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/08/us/08iht-letter08.html?_r=1
Not surprising news that Bachmann and her fellow tea party supporters are behind this campaign against American Muslims. When foundation of your political power rests on keeping people afraid of "others", you pretty much have to keep up the fear campaign. If and when fear tactics begin to fail, Bachmann and others will see their power erode.