Warnock Calls Cruz Remarks Bigotry
The Georgia Democrat criticized his Texas colleague for mocking a Kansas pastor's theology during a campaign event.
By Grace Almasi ·
Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia labeled Sen. Ted Cruz's recent remarks as bigotry on Sunday. The exchange occurred during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union, where host Jake Tapper prompted Cruz to address a theological dispute. Cruz had previously challenged Kansas pastor Adam Hamilton, a Senate candidate, regarding a 2022 sermon. In that sermon, Hamilton suggested God’s mercy could extend to sincere non-Christians, including Muslims.
Cruz mocked Hamilton’s view during a campaign stop in Wichita, Kansas, on Friday. The event supported incumbent Sen. Roger Marshall. Cruz said he found the idea that Muslims would be welcomed in heaven interesting. He then claimed the first person Americans might see there would be Osama bin Laden.
Warnock, a Baptist, said he takes no comfort in what he described as Islamophobia. He noted that both he and Cruz are Baptists. “It’s bigotry. Pure and simple,” Warnock told Tapper. He argued that Republicans are trying to stir up old demons because they believe they are losing the argument. He added that he sees the conflation of a specific example with the faith itself as a form of religious bias.
The Georgia senator said his background as an African-American helps him recognize bigotry. He called for the country to resist and reject such views. “America is so much better than this,” he said. He characterized the political move as deeply disheartening but not surprising.
Cruz’s office did not provide a comment by the time of publication. The two senators are expected to continue their roles in the upcoming legislative session. Hamilton remains a candidate in the Kansas Senate race.
