Pompeo and Bolton Appointments Raise Alarm Over Ties to Anti-Islam Groups

The following article by Laurie Goodstein was posted on the New York Times website April 6, 2018:

Mike Pompeo, the C.I.A. director, has been chosen by President Trump to replace Rex Tillerson as secretary of state .Credit Jacquelyn Martin/AP

Nearly two months after the Boston Marathon bombing, Mike Pompeo, then a congressman from Kansas, took to the floor of the House to denounce American Muslim leaders for what he called their “silence” in response to the heinous terrorist attack.

“Silence has made these Islamic leaders across America potentially complicit in these acts,” Mr. Pompeo said, reading from prepared remarks.

In fact, more than half a dozen American Muslim organizations had issued statements condemning the bombing within hours of the attack. In the days following, Muslim groups organized news conferences, blood drives and prayer vigils. Mr. Pompeo was immediately informed that he was wrong, but did not apologize or respond to Muslim groups stung by his remarks. Continue reading “Pompeo and Bolton Appointments Raise Alarm Over Ties to Anti-Islam Groups”