Lawmakers Rebuke Manhattan Mosque Opponents

A pair of Democrats released an online slideshow today highlighting what they say is a pattern of discrimination occurring against Muslims worldwide.

Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.) say the series of photos is meant to focus attention on the growing opposition to a proposed mosque that would be constructed blocks from the World Trade Center site in Manhattan.

“The hateful anti-Muslim rhetoric from opponents of the Cordoba House, especially political leaders, is inexcusable,” said the two lawmakers in a joint statement. “In a country founded on the principles of religious freedom we should not be in the business of picking and choosing when to apply those principles. It is unfortunate that so many national leaders have said they would deny Muslims or persons of any faith the right to build a place of worship.”

Pelosi's Official Statement On Cordoba House

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) released the following statement today regarding her prior calls for an investigation into those who oppose the construction of a mosque in Lower Manhattan:

“The freedom of religion is a Constitutional right. Where a place of worship is located is a local decision.

“I support the statement made by the Interfaith Alliance that ‘We agree with the ADL that there is a need for transparency about who is funding the effort to build this Islamic center. At the same time, we should also ask who is funding the attacks against the construction of the center.’

“For all of those expressing concern about the 9/11 families, we call upon them to join us in support of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act when Congress returns in September.”

Obama: No Regrets About Mosque Comments

Following an event today in Columbus, Ohio, President Barack Obama told reporters that he has no qualms about remarks he made last Friday in support of a mosque being built two blocks from where the World Trade Center used to stand.

“The answer is — no regrets,” he said.