Originally published in NJ Star Ledger
When asked if he feels Islam is consistent with the United States Constitution, GOP presidential candidate Ben Carson, a fellow physician, responded, “No I do not. … I would not advocate that we put a Muslim in charge of this nation. … I absolutely would not agree with that.”
Article VI, paragraph 3 of the U.S. constitution clearly states, “no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.” Also, while mentioning governance, the Qur’an (4:59) does not specify any specific form of government other than a beneficent one that is based on absolute justice.
By making this statement, Carson has clearly indicated that he neither understands true Islam, nor the Constitution that he pledges to uphold if elected as president. He has not only disrespected our Constitution, but also the value of religious tolerance on which our great country was built upon. He has also attempted to shatter the dreams of thousands of American-born Muslims who may aspire to become the President of the United States one day. At the very least, he owes an apology to them.
