Ben Carson on Monday night continued to defend his comment that he would not support a Muslim presidential candidate, slamming his fellow Republicans for criticizing his point of view.
“I was immediately attacked by some of my Republican peers and nearly every Democrat alive. Know this, I meant exactly what I said. I could never support a candidate for President of the United States that was Muslim and had not renounced the central tenant (sic) of Islam: Sharia Law,” he wrote in a Facebook post.
“Those Republicans that take issue with my position are amazing. Under Islamic Law, homosexuals – men and women alike – must be killed. Women must be subservient. And people following other religions must be killed,” he continued. “I know that there are many peaceful Muslims who do not adhere to these beliefs. But until these tenants (sic) are fully renounced…I cannot advocate any Muslim candidate for President.”
Carson also joined Fox News’ “Hannity” on Monday night, where he said that he stands by his comments. Although he defended his remarks, he also softened his comments about a Muslim’s potential to run for president. He said that he would oppose any individual advocating for a theocracy, including Christians.
“Now, if someone has a Muslim background, and they’re willing to reject those tenets and to accept the way of life that we have, and clearly will swear to place our Constitution above their religion, then of course they will be considered infidels and heretics, but at least I would then be quite willing to support them,” he said.
When Hannity asked Carson if he meant to talk about radical Muslims, not all Muslims in his original comment, Carson said that was “implied.”
After Carson made his initial remarks opposing Muslim presidential candidates, numerous Republicans, including Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Rep. Pete King (R-NY), criticized Carson’s comments.
Watch Carson’s interview with Hannity via Fox News:
