The Islamophobia Industrial Complex: A New Wave of Fear-Mongering in Texas

The rise of Islamophobia in American politics is not a new phenomenon, but its influence has grown significantly in recent years. In Texas, where the Republican base has been fueled by Islamophobic rhetoric and policy proposals, a 75-minute documentary called “The Great American Conflict” has emerged as a symptom of this trend. Produced by Iran Alive Ministries, a Texas-based organization dedicated to converting Iran to Christianity, the film aims to reveal what it sees as the true nature of Islam to the West.

However, what makes “The Great American Conflict” noteworthy is not its production values or its message – which rehashes familiar anti-Islamic talking points. Rather, it’s how this film has been absorbed and amplified by politicians, content creators, and advocacy groups on the right. Selectively edited clips spread on social media, pseudo-documentaries, and even congressional hearings have become tools for spreading fear-mongering sentiment about Islam.

This trend is not limited to Texas. Across the country, anti-Islamic rhetoric has become a staple of Republican politics, particularly in states with large Muslim populations like Michigan and New York. Politicians are using language that demonizes Muslims as a threat to American values and institutions. In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed’s Senate campaign was marred by Islamophobic attacks from his opponents. Similarly, Zohran Mamdani’s election to the New York City Council was met with vitriol from some quarters.

The roots of this wave of Islamophobia can be traced back to post-9/11 era politics, when figures like Brigitte Gabriel and ACT for America began promoting anti-Islamic extremism. Today, their ideas have been repackaged and mainstreamed by politicians and advocacy groups. Nathan Lean, a researcher and author of “The Islamophobia Industry,” points out that this new iteration of Islamophobia is not just about prejudice – it has become institutionalized in American politics.

The Sharia-Free America Caucus, composed of 68 elected members of Congress representing 25 states, is a prime example of this institutionalization. So too are efforts to make eliminating “sharia” law an official stance of the Texas GOP. The rise of Islamophobia is not coincidental; as American demographics change and Muslim visibility increases in politics, some politicians have begun to see Islam as a scapegoat for their own failures.

This is not just about anti-Islamic sentiment – it’s also about white Christian nationalism. The documentary “The Great American Conflict” may be poorly produced, but its message taps into this deeper anxiety. As we move towards the 2026 midterm elections, it’s essential to understand that Islamophobia is not a fringe phenomenon, but a central part of Republican politics in Texas and beyond.

Politicians who use fear-mongering language about Islam are emboldening anti-Muslim violence and intimidation. What this means for American democracy is nothing short of alarming. When politicians begin to demonize an entire faith community, it sets a dangerous precedent. It’s not just about the rhetoric – it’s about the institutionalization of prejudice in our politics.

To resist this trend, we must acknowledge that Islamophobia has become mainstream. We need to call out politicians who use anti-Islamic rhetoric and hold them accountable for their words. We also need to support organizations working to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Ultimately, the fight against Islamophobia requires a fundamental shift in how we approach politics and civic engagement. It’s not just about defeating this particular wave of fear-mongering – it’s about creating a more inclusive, equitable society where all Americans feel valued and respected. As we move towards the 2026 midterm elections, let us be clear: Islamophobia is not just a fringe phenomenon, but a central part of Republican politics in Texas and beyond.