Johnson dodges condemnation of anti-Muslim rhetoric, frames it as a Sharia-law clash

At a House Republican policy retreat, Speaker Mike Johnson said he discussed tone with two members who posted anti-Muslim remarks but defended opposing “the imposition of Sharia law,” stressing that the issue is not Muslims but those attempting to impose a different belief system in conflict with the Constitution. He said he regrets the wording, not the sentiment, and emphasized respect for beliefs while warning against assimilation challenges. The retreat also covers topics like a potential 18‑month extension of Section 702 surveillance and Trump-backed election legislation, underscoring ongoing internal GOP debates.