Tyler Muslim, lifelong Republican grapples with anti-Muslim rhetoric within his party

A Tyler community leader recently was profiled in a Buzzfeed News article about Muslim Republicans struggling to come to terms with Islamophobia in their political party.

Anwar Khalifa, owner of Pyramid Homes, and a longtime member of the Smith County Republican Party, discussed his struggle to back candidates who have expressed anti-Muslim sentiments.

Khalifa also discussed how he has been able to assuage fears and temper rhetoric, thanks to his standing in the community.

While he is reluctant to back certain candidates, Khalifa told Buzzfeed the GOP is still his party and he’s going to stay and fight.

Read the full article here.