Context:

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is defending Governor Greg Abbott's designation of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations. The designation, issued on November 18, 2025, has prompted a lawsuit from CAIR's local chapters, claiming it infringes on their First Amendment rights. In response, Paxton's filing argues that the lawsuit lacks standing and is based on speculation, emphasizing that the proclamation targets the national organization rather than local chapters. The case emerges amidst ongoing scrutiny of CAIR's activities and leadership, as calls for federal examination of its status intensify. The outcome may influence future state and federal actions regarding organizations linked to national security concerns.

Dive Deeper:

• On November 18, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott proclaimed CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations, citing concerns tied to national security.

• CAIR's Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin chapters filed a federal lawsuit against the proclamation, arguing it unlawfully stigmatizes them and restricts their free speech.

• In Paxton's court response dated December 22, 2025, he contends that the plaintiffs lack standing because Abbott's proclamation did not explicitly name them.

• The response cites the FBI's claim that CAIR was founded as a 'front group' for Hamas, reinforcing the state's position on national security threats.

• The controversy surrounding CAIR intensified following comments made by Executive Director Nihad Awad, which drew backlash from lawmakers and advocacy groups.

• Calls from congressional Republicans for a federal review of CAIR's nonprofit status and financial operations have gained traction, reflecting growing concerns at the national level.

• Paxton's filing seeks to dismiss the lawsuit without proceeding to discovery, emphasizing that the judiciary should not interfere with state designations.