Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Oklahoma Voters Overwhelmingly Ban Sharia Law

ACT! for America Claims Victory in Passage of State Question 755 Following Grassroots Activities

ACT! for America claimed victory in last night’s overwhelming passage of Oklahoma State Question 755 by more than seventy percent of the electorate.  The amendment, which forbids courts from considering Sharia (Islamic) or international law and mandates they “rely on federal and state laws when deciding cases,” passed following the organization’s grassroots campaign in Oklahoma which included radio ads and 600,000 automated phone calls to voters featuring the voice of Oklahoma native and former CIA Director Jim Woolsey.

“While the economy and jobs took center stage this election cycle, national security concerns were still at the forefront of the minds of Oklahomans,” said Brigitte Gabriel, President of ACT! for America.  “Americans are increasingly aware of the threat of homegrown jihadism and creeping sharia law - and they took firm action last night.

“Overall, the election results bode well for progress in the Congress on these issues and will increase the pressure on the Obama administration to adjust the way it is defining and addressing the threat of radical Islam.”

The 1-minute radio spot, which began running on October 18, aired across the state.  Ms. Gabriel, along with the local ACT! for America chapter leader, also penned an op-ed for The Oklahoman in support of the amendment.

As for the other election results, from the ACT! for America perspective the most important consequence is that “the power of the gavel” will switch in the U.S. House of Representatives.

By this, Ms. Gabriel adds, "I mean key committees, such as the Homeland Security Committee, will likely be chaired by Members of Congress who truly understand the threat radical Islam poses to our national security and who will have a different list of priorities regarding what bills to consider and hearings to hold. The legislative calendar, controlled by the Speaker of the House, will also reflect different priorities regarding what bills to bring to a vote before the full House."