Growth, Not Grievance
Yes, the Muslim population in Texas *is* growing. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Texas chapter confirmed it just this week, May 12-13, 2026. This isn’t some secret conspiracy. It’s a natural, documented trend fueled by immigration, internal migration, and birth rates. Texas is attracting people, and that includes Muslims seeking opportunity, just like countless others before them. Is this an invasion, or just Texas being Texas? Mustafa Carroll, Executive Director of CAIR-Houston, put it plainly on May 13:“The growth we’re seeing in Muslim communities across Texas isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the vibrant contributions to our state’s economy, culture, and civic life… From Houston to Lufkin, Muslims are building homes, businesses, and futures, and becoming an undeniable part of the Texas story.”That’s the undeniable truth on the ground. Not the fearmongering out of Washington.
Lufkin’s Evolving Fabric
Even in East Texas, places like Lufkin are seeing this shift. Imam Omar Khan of the Islamic Center of Lufkin stated on May 12, 2026:“Our mosque in Lufkin has seen a steady increase in families over the past few years… This shows the welcoming nature of East Texas, and we are committed to being good neighbors and active participants in this wonderful community.”These aren’t just numbers; these are families putting down roots. They are opening stores, becoming doctors, teachers, and first responders. These communities are establishing new mosques and centers. They are opening businesses and contributing to the local tax base. This is economic activity and job creation. This is what happens when people move to a state looking for a better life and a chance to contribute. Meanwhile, politicians like Roy point to “224 mosques in Texas” as if it’s an invasion. They twist discussions about a Dallas “Muslim city” development or HUD probes into cries of “segregation” and “Sharia.” It’s all a desperate, cynical attempt to rile up their base and distract from real issues.
The Red Marker
Make no mistake: Chip Roy’s “Muslim surge” rant is nothing less than a desperate primary election stunt. He is not concerned with genuine threats to Texans, but with his own political survival. Early voting is on right now. Candidates like Roy are tripping over themselves to out-Sharia each other for red votes. They are peddling manufactured fear to secure their seats, all while Texans are simply living their lives. This isn’t about “Sharia law” taking over; it’s about a politician’s ego and a shameless grab for power. The reality is undeniable: Texas’s Muslim population, now estimated to be well over 500,000, will continue its growth. Their economic and cultural contributions will only deepen, enriching the very fabric of our state. Ignoring this vibrant reality for cheap political points isn’t just dishonest; it’s a profound disservice to every single Texan. It’s time we demand better from our elected officials than cynical fear-mongering and demand they focus on real issues, not imagined threats.Source: Google News
