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September 21, 2015

Ben Carson Says a Muslim Should Not Become President 
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The Council on American-Islamic Relations is calling on Republican
presidential candidate Ben Carson to withdraw from the race after he
said he would not agree with a Muslim being elected president. Carson
made the comments on NBC's Meet the Press with Chuck Todd.

Ben Carson: "Well, I guess it depends on what that faith is. If it's
inconsistent with the values and principles of America, then of course
it should matter. But if it fits within the realm of America and
consistent with the Constitution, no problem."

Chuck Todd: "So do you believe that Islam is consistent with the
Constitution?"

Ben Carson: "No, I don't. I do not."

Chuck Todd: "So you— "

Ben Carson: "I would not advocate that we put a Muslim in charge of this
nation. I absolutely would not agree with that."

Carson's campaign has defended the remarks, saying there is a "huge
gulf" between the Muslim faith and "our Constitution and American
values." Carson's comments came after fellow Republican contender Donald
Trump was criticized for failing to correct a supporter who called Obama
a Muslim at a town hall event last week. On Sunday, Trump told Chuck
Todd he was willing to take Obama at his word when the president said he
was a Christian. He also said that some people already think we have a
Muslim president.

 

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