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Women’s Rights Activist Ayaan Hirsi Ali Endorses Cornyn in Pivotal Texas Senate Race
Prominent women’s rights activist Ayaan Hirsi Ali has formally endorsed Senator John Cornyn for re-election in a Texas Senate race that could prove decisive for Republican control of the upper chamber. Ali, who fled Somalia after suffering female genital mutilation, cited Cornyn’s record on combating radical Islamic extremism as the primary reason for her support.
“I’ve seen firsthand what radical Islam does to women, to families, and to nations who ignore the warning signs. America is not immune, and neither is Texas,” Ali stated in a video announcement. “That’s why experience matters.”
The endorsement adds a notable voice to an already contentious Republican primary that features Cornyn, who has held the seat since 2002, facing challenges from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Representative Wesley Hunt. Former President Donald Trump has not yet endorsed a candidate in the race, though he recently indicated he might soon, noting his friendly relationships with all three contenders.
Cornyn expressed gratitude for Ali’s support, telling Fox News Digital, “I am honored to be endorsed by Ayaan Hirsi Ali, who has spoken fearlessly about the dangers of radical Islam from her own experience.”
The senator’s office highlighted his legislative efforts against Sharia law, including the introduction of the Defeat Sharia Law in America Act, which aims to classify discrimination based on Sharia law as a violation of the Civil Rights Act. Cornyn has also co-sponsored the No Sharia Act to prohibit U.S. courts from enforcing foreign laws that violate the Constitution and has called for investigation into “EPIC Ranches City,” a development allegedly marketed as a Muslims-only community in Texas.
The focus on Islamic law comes as Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently designated the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as “foreign terrorist organizations” and “transnational criminal organizations” under Texas law. Cornyn also introduced legislation in 2025 to strip tax-exempt status from organizations providing material support to designated terrorist groups, specifically targeting CAIR.
“For many years now, I have worked to confront this radical ideology, from working to ban Sharia Law, to identifying, arresting and prosecuting terrorist organizations, and calling on the DOJ to investigate the EPIC City development,” Cornyn said. “I will continue to protect Texans from the threat of radical Islamic ideology anywhere in our country.”
Ali’s endorsement emphasized Cornyn’s experience, indirectly criticizing his primary opponents who would be first-term senators. “He has taken the threat seriously when others choose denial or political games,” she said.
Both Paxton and Hunt have also spoken out against Sharia law. Paxton sued CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood, seeking to halt their operations in Texas, and pursued legal action against EPIC developers for alleged securities law violations. Hunt has stated that Sharia law is “completely incompatible with the founding principles of the United States” and should have no place in American legal systems.
The primary endorsement landscape is taking shape with just over two weeks until election day. Cornyn has secured backing from the National Republican Senatorial Committee and the National Border Patrol Council. Paxton received an endorsement from Turning Point Action, the political arm of Turning Point USA, while Hunt has been endorsed by Veterans for America First.
All three Republican candidates have emphasized their support for Trump and their records of advancing his agenda in their respective positions. Trump recently told reporters he was giving the race “a very serious look” and might announce an endorsement soon, adding, “They say whoever I endorse wins. That’s probably right.”
The winner of the Republican primary will face either Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett or state Representative James Talarico in the general election, a contest that could help determine control of the Senate in the upcoming legislative session.
According to Paxton’s office, Ali will participate in a campaign roundtable with religious leaders in North Texas later this week, further highlighting the role of religious freedom and anti-extremism positions in the primary campaign.
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12 Comments
Ayaan Hirsi Ali’s endorsement of Senator Cornyn carries a lot of weight given her experience as a Somali refugee and advocate for women’s rights. Her firsthand perspective on the dangers of radical Islam is an important consideration for Texas voters.
Cornyn’s record on combating extremism seems to resonate with Ali. Her support could boost his re-election bid in this pivotal Senate race.
Cornyn must be feeling optimistic about his re-election chances with Ali’s high-profile endorsement. Her personal story and advocacy for human rights make her a compelling spokesperson for his campaign.
It will be interesting to see if this endorsement helps Cornyn fend off challenges from other Republicans. Ali’s voice carries a lot of moral authority on these issues.
Cornyn must be feeling good about securing Ali’s endorsement. Her personal story and advocacy for women’s rights gives her a powerful platform to influence Texas voters on national security and cultural issues.
With Trump not yet endorsing a candidate, Ali’s backing could provide a valuable boost to Cornyn’s campaign in the pivotal GOP primary.
It’s interesting to see a prominent women’s rights activist like Ayaan Hirsi Ali endorse a Republican candidate. Her endorsement signals that she sees Cornyn as the best choice to protect American values and security.
With the Senate majority at stake, this race in Texas will be closely watched. Ali’s backing of Cornyn could sway some independent and moderate voters.
Ayaan Hirsi Ali’s endorsement of Cornyn is a savvy political move by the senator. Her reputation as a brave critic of radical Islam will resonate with many Texans concerned about security and cultural issues.
This race bears watching, as it could have ripple effects on the balance of power in the Senate. Ali’s support gives Cornyn an edge, but there’s still a long way to go.
Ayaan Hirsi Ali has faced immense challenges as a survivor of Sharia law and female genital mutilation. Her endorsement of Cornyn carries a lot of credibility and moral authority on these critical issues.
It will be interesting to see if Ali’s support helps Cornyn fend off challenges from other Republicans in the primary. Her voice could be a key factor in this race.