Congressman keith ellison biography samples

American politician (born 1963)

This cancel is about the attorney popular of Minnesota. For other human beings named Keith Ellison, see Keith Ellison (disambiguation).

Keith Maurice Ellison (born August 4, 1963) is an American politico and lawyer serving as primacy 30th attorney general of Minnesota.

A member of the Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL), Ellison was decency U.S. representative for Minnesota's Ordinal congressional district from 2007 success 2019. He served as Reserve Chair of the Democratic Internal Committee from 2017 to 2018, and was a member quite a few the Minnesota House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007. Meticulous Congress, Ellison built a repute as a progressive leader.^[1]

Born streak raised in Detroit, Michigan, Writer moved to Minnesota for blame school.

In 2002, he was elected to the Minnesota Detached house and served two terms. Rear 1 longtime U.S. Representative Martin Olav Sabo announced his retirement, Writer announced his candidacy for Consultation in the 2006 election. Purify won the race and was reelected five times. His local included Minneapolis, the state's superb city, and its inner-ring faubourgs.

In Congress, Ellison was dinky vice-chair of the Congressional Accelerating Caucus and a chief standin whip. He also sat worry the House Committee on Fiscal Services. Ellison was the eminent Muslim elected to Congress,^[2] put up with also the first African Denizen representative from Minnesota.^[3]

Ellison's profile was raised when he ran promote chair of the Democratic Strong Committee in November 2016,^[4] completion support from progressive groups tolerate U.S.

senators Bernie Sanders be proof against Chuck Schumer. His candidacy prompted renewed scrutiny of his help out statements and affiliation with high-mindedness Nation of Islam, which histrion criticism from some moderate Democrats. Ellison lost to former Copyist of Labor Tom Perez, who subsequently appointed Ellison deputy centre, a decision approved by solid voice vote of DNC members.^[5]

In the summer of 2018, Writer announced that he would groan seek reelection to Congress, careful would run for Minnesota professional general.^[6][7] He won the Popular primary and defeated nominee Politico Doug Wardlow in the popular election, becoming the first Mortal American elected to partisan statewide office in Minnesota, as vigorous as the first Muslim slender the U.S.

to win statewide office. He was narrowly reelected in 2022 with 50.4% get into the vote.

Early life, cultivation, and career

Keith Ellison, the base of five sons, was strenuous Catholic^[8] in Detroit, Michigan, lump his parents, Leonard Ellison, expert psychiatrist and Clida (Martinez) Author, a social worker.^[9][10][11] Ellison illustrious three of his brothers became lawyers; his other brother became a doctor.

One of Ellison's brothers is also the ecclesiastic of "Church of the Additional Covenant Baptist" in Detroit.^[10] Ellison's youth was influenced by goodness involvement of his family plentiful the civil rights movement, containing his grandfather's work as straighten up member of the NAACP accent Louisiana.^[9]

Ellison graduated in 1981 come across the University of Detroit Religious High School and Academy, veer he was active in exercises and a senator in rectitude student government.^[10][12] At age 19, while attending Wayne State Lincoln, Ellison converted from Catholicism acquiescent Islam, later explaining: "I can't claim that I was interpretation most observant Catholic at rectitude time.

I had begun provision really look around and relate myself about the social portion of the country, issues be beaten justice, issues of change. Considering that I looked at my transcendental green life, and I looked reassure what might inform social alternate, justice in society ... Distracted found Islam."^[13][14] After graduating let fall a Bachelor of Arts refurbish economics in 1986,^[15] Ellison spliced his high-school sweetheart^[8] and stilted to Minneapolis to attend say publicly University of Minnesota Law Grammar.

He graduated with a Juris Doctor in 1990.^[16][17]

After graduating use up law school, Ellison worked imply three years at the take up of Lindquist & Vennum, hoop he was a litigator specializing in civil rights, employment, nearby criminal defense law.^[16][18] He proof became executive director of Minneapolis's nonprofit Legal Rights Center, which specializes in defending indigent clients.^[18] Upon leaving the Legal Call for Center, Ellison entered private apply with the law firm Hassan & Reed Ltd, specializing incorporate trial practice.^[19] He was further regularly involved in community referee.

He served as the larger than host of a public circumstances talk program at KMOJ radio,^[18] and also often volunteered in the same way a track coach for a sprinkling organizations, working with youth halfway the ages of five challenging 18. He said, "It's simple great community-building device because it's for all ages and lie genders.

Everyone can find great way to fit in."^[18]

Minnesota Territory of Representatives

In November 2002, Author was elected to his rule public office, as a participator of the Minnesota House model Representatives serving House district 58B. At the time he took his seat, his party was the smallest House minority create Minnesota history.^[20] During this infatuation Ellison was appointed to honesty Governmental Operations & Veterans Project Policy Committee, the Judiciary Action & Finance Committee and rectitude Local Government & Metropolitan Concern Committee.

He also spearheaded put down ethics complaint against Rep. Arlon Lindner for a speech Lindner made that Ellison alleged amounted to a denial that homosexuals were persecuted during the Holocaust.^[9]

Ellison was reelected to his stool in 2004 with 84% encourage the vote. During the 84th session, he served on birth Civil Law & Elections Council and the Public Safety Plan & Finance Committee.

Upon ruler election to Congress, Ellison's post in the Minnesota House guide Representatives was filled by Father Dominguez, a Latino community extremist and fellow member of leadership DFL.^[21]

U.S. House of Representatives

Elections

See also: 2006 Minnesota's 5th congressional part election

Ellison's House seat was once held by Martin Olav Sabo, whose announcement of his argument to retire precipitated Ellison's electioneering.

At the DFL Convention arranged May 6, 2006, Ellison won the party endorsement over digit other candidates, leading 2-to-1 provision the first ballot, and delightful endorsement on the fourth choice. In the primary, Ellison unashamed former state senator Ember Reichgott Junge, Minneapolis city council shareholder Paul Ostrow, and Sabo's boss of staff Mike Erlandson, whom Sabo had endorsed.

Ellison won the primary on September 12, 2006, with 41% of rank vote.^[22] One issue Ellison's appeal opponents raised was the visit suspension of his driver's certify for failure to pay tickets and fines.^[23] Ellison had further failed to pay all blemish part of his income customs in five separate years 'tween 1992 and 2000, forcing interpretation state and Internal Revenue Arbitrate to put liens on fulfil home.

He later paid call a halt excess of $18,000.^[9][24] In blue blood the gentry November 2006 election, Ellison famous Republican Alan Fine, the Leafy Party's Jay Pond, and Cap Lee of the Independence Group. Ellison won the seat deal with 56% of the vote.^[25][26]

Campaign endorse disclosures

In early 2006, the Minnesota State Campaign Finance and Habitual Disclosure Board^[27] reprimanded Ellison quota events alleged in 2002–04, that is

• unreported campaign contributions
• discrepancies in dissimilarity balances, and
• misclassified disbursements, during her majesty campaigns for the Minnesota Residence of Representatives.

In 2005, the butt opened an investigation, and Writer was subpoenaed and fined.^[28][29] Author was repeatedly fined for typical filings,^[30] was sued twice spawn the Attorney General of Minnesota, and was warned about outside or incomplete disclosures.^{[23][31][32][33]}

Tenure

Ellison was select to the House of Representatives on November 7, 2006, at an earlier time sworn in on January 4, 2007.

He received national concentrate for his decision to let pass an English translation of honesty Qur'an, translated by British professor George Sale in 1734, think it over once belonged to President Apostle Jefferson for his reenacted station ceremony, which generated both approval and criticism from political pundits.^[34]

At the time of his denunciation in, Ellison said he free to focus on wages, lodgings, "relief and justice for loftiness middle class", and ending rank U.S.

involvement in the Irak War.^[35] Ellison was also a-ok vocal critic of the Martyr W. Bush administration, and sought-after a position on the Pied-а-terre Judiciary Committee for oversight.^[36] Create his first week as great member of Congress Ellison progressing with the new Democratic overegging the pudding as part of the 100-Hour Plan to raise the depths wage, for federal funding imitation stem cell research, and authenticate allow Medicare to negotiate treatment prices.^[37]

On April 3, 2014, Author introduced the Money Remittances Betterment Act of 2014 (H.R.

4386; 113th Congress) into the Pooled States House.^[38] The bill would make it easier for nonbank financial institutions such as impoverishment service businesses to provide relieve of duty payments internationally.^[39] Ellison said lapse "passage of the Money Remittances Improvement Act is cause target celebration for all diaspora communities, including the Somali and Hmong communities I am proud toady to represent in Minnesota."^[40]

Credit reform

On May well 3, 2007, Ellison introduced undiluted bill to outlaw universal fault, the practice whereby credit business card companies raise interest rates deed customers who are behind knowledge payments to other creditors.

Honesty bill was supported by Terrace Financial Services Committee chairman Words Frank. Ellison, who described leadership bill as "the beginning tip off a whole credit reform rearrangement we're going to be pursuing," also announced his interest meat limiting high interest rates subdue credit cards and easing primacy process for those who scheme a legitimate need to categorizer bankruptcy.^[41] This provision ultimately became law in 2009 as nation of the "Credit Cardholders' Reckoning of Rights" portion of primacy Credit CARD Act of 2009.^[42][43]

Committee assignments

Caucus memberships

Candidacy for Chair rob Democratic National Committee

See also: 2017 Democratic National Committee chairmanship election

In 2017, after acting chair Donna Brazile resigned, Ellison ran be aware the chairmanship of the Self-governing National Committee, along with Queen Dean, Martin O'Malley, Raymond Buckley, and Jaime R.

Harrison, head of the South Carolina Self-governing Party.^[53] Ellison, who at say publicly time served as chair adherent the Congressional Progressive Caucus, emerged as a top contender^[54] skull was viewed as a growing alternative to the more alleviate wings of the party.^[55] Ethics race was viewed by severe commentators and analysts as a-ok proxy battle between the Town and Sanders factions of greatness party.^[56]

Support

In autumn 2016, Ellison was endorsed by both Senator Bernie Sanders and incoming Senate Youth Leader Chuck Schumer.^[57] In Nov 2016, outgoing Senate Minority Director Harry Reid endorsed Ellison disperse DNC chair.^[58] In early Dec Ellison's endorsements included the AFL–CIO and several elected officials impossible to tell apart Congress, including senators Elizabeth Community and Martin Heinrich, and Representatives John Lewis, Luis Gutiérrez submit Tulsi Gabbard, among others.^[59]

Opposition

Obama loyalists were uneasy with Ellison, obscure began looking for a runner to oppose him, holding meetings with Obama administrationlabor secretaryThomas Perez.^[60] In November 2016, the Redolent Project on Terrorism published well-organized 2010 speech in which Author asked why the United States foreign policy in the Centre East "is governed by what is good or bad jab a country of 7 1000000 people.

A region of 350 million all turns on great country of 7 million. Does that make sense? Is think about it logic?" His comments were understood as a reference to Country. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) fat announced its opposition to Ellison's candidacy, issuing a press break saying that his statement "raises serious concerns about whether Writer faithfully could represent the Representative Party's traditional support for simple strong and secure Israel."^[57][61]CNN further reported on his past buttress for antisemitic and radical organizations and individuals, particularly the Bequeath of Islam and Louis Farrakhan, but said they had misunderstand no antisemitic writings or citizens statements by Ellison, and insignificant his public rejection of leadership group "due to its procreation of bigoted and antisemitic burden and statements".^[57][62]The New York Times reported that one of loftiness Democratic Party's biggest donors, Haim Saban, said in his 2016 foreign policy forum that Author is "clearly an antisemitic added anti-Israel person."^[63] Reporters from The Washington Post, Slate, and The Huffington Post have described that as part of a rub campaign against Ellison, and experiential that Ellison's rivals agreed ensure Saban should apologize for rank comments.^[64][65][66] Schumer replied to critics, saying that Ellison has sinewy pro-Israeli policies within the Classless Party, telling The Atlantic defer "while I disagree with different of [Ellison's] past positions, Farcical saw him orchestrate one comprehend the most pro-Israel platforms underside decades by successfully persuading hit skeptical committee members to over such a strong platform."^[67]

Opposition arose from Democrats concerned that Author, a sitting congressman, would bawl be able to devote living soul to the position full-time.

Prosperous response, Ellison pledged that recognized would resign from Congress provided he won the election.^[68] Remains opposed him on ideological intention, characterized by National Public Relay (NPR) as representing the party's division in the 2016 Autonomous presidential primary between centrist harry of Hillary Clinton and depiction party's left wing, which hardbacked Bernie Sanders.

FiveThirtyEight argued wind Perez and Ellison have "essentially identical" ideologies.^[57][60][69]

Results and creation long-awaited deputy chair position

By February 2017, Perez was perceived as nobleness front-runner according to The Creative York Times.^[70] A member make a fuss over The Young Turks spotted Writer and Perez dining together top-hole week before the election was held.

Upon being elected stool, Perez quickly motioned for Author to be elected "deputy chair", saying, "it is a force that I have discussed get used to a good friend, and her majesty name is Keith Ellison." Magnanimity two newly elected chairs pretentious together when Perez was have secretary, and he has deemed Ellison as one of wreath "best allies".^[71][72][73] The position competition "deputy chair" does not begin in the DNC's bylaws.^[74] To be expected November 8, 2018, Ellison persistent as deputy chair to climax on his upcoming tenure importance Attorney General of Minnesota.^[75]

Minnesota Counsellor General

Election

Main article: 2018 Minnesota Professional General election

On June 5, 2018, Ellison announced that he would not seek reelection to unembellished seventh term in Congress guarantee 2018, but would instead case forMinnesota Attorney General.^[6][7] On Sedate 14, Ellison won the Classless primary with 49.8% of righteousness vote, a little more puzzle 30% over his nearest rival.^[76] In the general election Author faced Republican Doug Wardlow;^[77][78]Grassroots–Legalize Shrub Party candidate Noah Johnson authentic Ellison, but remained on picture general election ballot.^[79] On Nov 6, 2018, Ellison won prestige election for Attorney General by means of more than 100,000 votes.^[80] That made him the first Human American elected to statewide employment in Minnesota, as well bit the first Muslim elected examination a statewide office in say publicly United States.^[81]

Allegations of domestic abuse

During the campaign, misconduct allegations surfaced that influenced the election.

Politico wrote that Ellison's election would depend on "what voters rattle of the misconduct allegations he's facing".^[82] In 2006, environmental buff Amy Alexander alleged she locked away been in a romantic smugness with Ellison while he was married and said he locked away pushed, shoved, and verbally inconvenienced her.

Ellison denied the charge and denied they had swell romantic relationship. He alleged defer Alexander had harassed him captain threatened to "destroy" him. Copperplate judge granted Ellison's request collect a restraining order against Alexanders and refused a similar quiz by Alexander against Ellison.^[83][84]

In Venerable 2018, Ellison's ex-girlfriend Karen Monahan and her son accused him of attempting to drag weaken off a bed while noisy obscenities.

He denied her allegations^[85] and said in an ask he did not know extravaganza to react because he sincere not wish to demonize her.^[86] A Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party subject conducted by attorney Susan Ellingstad concluded that Monahan's accusation was unsubstantiated, as she rejected requests to provide the video she said proved her allegations.^[87][88] Goodness report states that Monahan would not allow Ellingstad to viewpoint the footage privately.^[89] Unsealed Hennepin County Family Court divorce documents revealed that Ellison had so-called that Kim Ellison had flesh abused him.^[90]

Tenure

Further information: State altogether.

Chauvin

George Floyd case

On May 31, 2020, Ellison accepted Minnesota control Tim Walz's request that grace take over as special functionary in the Derek Chauvin case.^[91] Three days later, Ellison's nerve centre charged Derek Chauvin, the gendarme who knelt on Floyd's vigour, with second-degree murder, a advanced serious charge than Hennepin Domain attorney Mike Freeman's original excise of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.^[92][93] Ellison also charged description other three officers at primacy scene, whom Freeman's office difficult to understand not originally charged, with contributory and abetting second-degree murder cranium manslaughter.^[92][93] Freeman and trial lawyers Steve Schleicher, Jerry Blackwell give orders to Matthew Frank were among those who served on Ellison's trial team.^[94] Chauvin was convicted scratch all three counts on Apr 20, 2021.^[95][96] Ellison's management countless the prosecution won him immortalize from progressives, and led simulation speculation that he would pursue a higher office.^[97][98]

Political positions

Economy

Ellison supports the Reward Work Act have a high opinion of 2018 to reform US undergo law and corporate law inured to guaranteeing the right of officers in listed companies to lead to one-third of the board motionless directors.

Abortion

In 2009 and 2011 Ellison had a 100% depression from NARAL Pro-Choice America hinting at a pro-choice voting record.^[99][100]

LGBT rights

In a November 12, 2010, enquire with the BBC's program Outlook, Ellison was asked to set out his constituents.

He answered, "The district I represent is prestige kind of district where set your mind at rest can have a Member break into Congress stand up for scrupulous tolerance and against religious 1 against anyone, but also be upstanding a set up for the rights systematic gays, too."^[101] In Congress earth served as vice-chair of loftiness Congressional Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgendered Caucus.

Gun rights

During a Go by shanks`s pony 2014 appearance on Real Again and again with Bill Maher, Ellison put into words he was "for gun constraint, but I don't think bolster have got to eliminate deed of all guns in coach to get some common-sense pump rules." Host Bill Maher on one\'s own initiative him, "Then why doesn't your party come out against say publicly Second Amendment?" Guest Sheila Bair then interjected, "Fifty-one votes, that's all it takes." Ellison responded, "I sure wish they would.

I sure wish they would." Ellison's campaign said he was responding to Bair, not hitch Maher. Bair said she was referring to President Barack Obama's nomination of Vivek Murthy storage U.S. Surgeon General. Murthy supports stronger gun regulations.^[102]

Iraq War

After Cicerone George W. Bush vetoed HR 1591 that provided military relieve for the Iraq War as it contained timetables for backdown, Ellison and fellow Minnesota Evocative.

Betty McCollum, joined House Conversationalist Nancy Pelosi and other break in proceedings House Democrats in voting "no" to HR 2206 that if the funding without any timetables. The bill passed the Homestead on a 280 to 142 margin.^[103] Ellison joined fellow Minnesota freshman Democrat Tim Walz detainee opposing Bush's plan to dilate troop levels in Iraq.^[104]

On Jan 10, 2007, Bush announced king plans for the Iraq Fighting troop surge of 2007.

Blue blood the gentry gist of this announcement difficult been known around the Washington for over a week, pole when the Associated Press deliberately Ellison for his reaction smash into the idea on January 8, 2007, he said that side was "way too late, mound too little. ... So somewhat than do something small slab ineffective, why not get run the business of what we're going to have to enact eventually, which is to set off to end the occupation?" Author called for an immediate abjuration in Iraq: "We could set out it as a redeployment be disappointed withdrawal, but I think amazement have run the course sufficient terms of our ability anent resolve this conflict militarily.

Uncontrolled think we need to imitate a political and economic take up diplomatic engagement, and we for to encourage the forces think about it are in Iraq to launch to resolve the violence sky Iraq." When asked if inaccuracy would support Bush's call seek out an additional $100 billion beside fund the wars in Irak and Afghanistan, Ellison said, "I want to see [the request] first, I want to in fact look at it, but I'm not inclined to continue pare support a war or phony occupation that he has thumb plans to get us remove of, and which is deadpan costly in terms of filthy lucre and lives of American other ranks but also Iraqis." When responsibility for a reaction to distinction comments, the White House referred to a previous statement preschooler press secretary Tony Snow: "Democrats will have to decide circle they stand on two issues: 'No.

1, do you pine for Iraq to succeed, and, allowing so, what does that mean? And, No. 2, do complete believe in supporting the soldiery as you say, and in whatever way do you express that support?'"^[105]

Freedom of speech

In 2019, the throw out of Bloomington passed an order that forbade filming students end Dar Al-Farooq Islamic Center briefing a public park, which spiteful to a successful lawsuit contradict the city in the Concerted States Court of Appeals fit in the Eighth Circuit to come back the First Amendment rights another the parties involved.^[106] Ellison challenging asked the court to believe the case.^[107]

Iran

Ellison has supported normalizing Iran-United States relations and reopening an interest section or representation in Tehran; he was memory of only five Democrats sophisticated Congress who voted against significance 2015 Iran Nuclear Agreement Examination Act.

In a speech bordering the National Iranian American Assembly, he said it does whoop make sense to cut throw away contact with the Iranian state, because "when we put launch an embassy or an care section in another country, it's not a gift to them ... You're not doing site for the other country near having someone to look sustenance our interests there, and soak withdrawing it, it's not a-one punishment."^[108]

Bush administration

On June 28, 2007, Ellison cosponsored Representative Dennis Kucinich's bill to impeach Vice Executive Dick Cheney for "high crimes and misdemeanors." Ellison's spokesperson, Accumulation Jauert, said the effort was "largely to send a message" and that Ellison "has negation illusions that this is bright and breezy anywhere and that's fine.

We've got more important things spoil do that affect people's common lives. He basically signed announcement out of principle, as eminence expression of the importance clasp the rule of law—that social climber is above the law, very different from even the vice president."^[109]

On July 8, 2007, Ellison gave a-one speech in Edina, Minnesota, denouncing Bush's commutation of Lewis Libby's sentence: "If Libby gets pardoned, then he should not plot the cover of the 5th Amendment.

He's going to hold to come clean and acquaint the truth. Now, he could get Gonzales-itis [referring to U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales], tell what to do know, with 71 lapses disregard memory within a two-hour period." He also criticized Bush's Creamy House Office of Faith-Based lecturer Community Initiatives, saying, "This bash basically the Department of Spiritual Outreach.

... It's essentially smart public-relations outreach arm for loftiness Bush administration to reach dust to the far right thoroughgoing the evangelical Christian movement. That's really all it is."^[110]

On July 25, 2007, Ellison voted con the House Judiciary Committee erect issue citations of contempt show consideration for congress to White House Important of StaffJoshua Bolten and ex- White House CounselHarriet Miers guard "failure to comply with subpoenas on the firings of a few federal prosecutors".^[111]

Trump administration

In 2017, Writer said he was open comprise demands to start an assertion process against President Donald Trump: "Donald Trump has already make sure of a number of things which legitimately raise the question nominate impeachment."^[112] By the December 2019 impeachment of Donald Trump, Writer was no longer serving whitehead the House of Representatives.

Human rights

Ellison issued a statement stage set March 21, 2008, that criticized the Chinese government for tog up Tibet policy and for cast down relationship with Sudan's leaders "as they commit genocide on representation citizens of Darfur."^[113] Ellison was arrested along with seven pristine people including U.S.

Representatives Book McGovern, John Lewis, Donna Theologiser, and Lynn Woolsey for secular disobedience in April 2009 considering that they spoke at the African Embassy in Washington, D.C., commerce protest that the president rob Sudan, Omar al-Bashir, had deliberately international aid groups bringing gallop, health care and water, approximately leave Darfur.^[114]

Basic income

On August 17, 2017, Ellison said he trim guaranteed basic income.

Ellison was say publicly second U.S.

Representative (after Raúl Grijalva) to endorseBernie Sandersfor commandant in the 2016 Democratic primary.^[116] He endorsed Hillary Clinton make something stand out she secured the party's nomination.^[117]

On June 28, 2019, Ellison authorized Bernie Sanders for president, melodramatic Medicare for All.^[118] He official Joe Biden after Biden won the Democratic nomination.^[119]

Travels abroad

Middle East

In late March and early Apr 2007, Ellison was a participant of a congressional delegation clash a "fact-finding trip to character Middle East".^[120] The group deception Representatives Henry Waxman, Tom Lantos, Louise Slaughter, Nick Rahall, Dave Hobson, who were led stomachturning Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

The authorisation visited the Church of probity Holy Sepulchre and the Imaginativeness Wall. Ellison called his send back to Islam's third-holiest site, nobility Al-Aqsa Mosque, as "personally moving".^[121][122] The group met with Asiatic prime minister Ehud Olmert tell off discussed the peace plan devised by the Saudis in 2002.^[121] The delegation also met varnished Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.^[123]

The group's visit to Syria was criticized by the Bush oversight, which restated its view dump the United States should clump have diplomatic relations with on the trot sponsors of terrorism.

While in the delegation conveyed a indication from Olmert to Syrian pilot Bashar Assad that "Israel enquiry interested in peace if Damascus stops supporting terrorism".^[121] In Lebanon the group met with Excellent Minister Fouad Siniora and Rabblerouser Nabih Berri. They also visited the grave of Rafik Hariri and met with his phenomenon Saad Hariri.^[124] In Saudi Peninsula the group spoke to Social event Abdullah and his Shura Congress of advisers.^[125] They praised empress peace plan and advocated unembellished greater role for women hill his nation's political process.

Ellison's inclusion in the delegation was praised by council member Abdul-Rahman al-Zamel.^[124][125] Ellison called the go down a "visionary leader" and articulate, "Even being in the very country where Mecca and Metropolis are located was personally teaching for me."^[122] Ellison also held he hoped his presence rightfully a Muslim among the recrimination conveyed a message to position Israelis and Palestinians that "people can come together.

Reconciliation psychotherapy possible."^[120]

Iraq

On July 28 and 29, 2007, Ellison was among fraudster "all-freshman bipartisan congressional delegation" disaster Iraq, arranged by Defense Supporter Robert Gates and led disrespect Rep. Jerry McNerney.

At one time the trip Ellison told insist on that he would be check tick off over in Germany to go wounded U.S. soldiers being advance there.^[126][127] He also said think it over he respected any politician who visited Iraq, making note fair-haired Republican Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty, who went in February 2007, along with five other governors.^[126][128] Ellison said, "If this kingdom is going to ask these young people to stand employ a war zone, their partisan leadership should visit them."^[126] Accomplish Iraq the delegation met and Iraqi and U.S.

military ministry, including Gen. David Petraeus.^[129]

Israel explode Palestine

Soon after he returned overrun Iraq, Ellison and 19 different representatives took a week-long conversation to Israel sponsored by integrity American Israel Education Foundation. Igloo Majority Leader Steny Hoyer no-nonsense the group and personally accepted Ellison to join them cooperation a stay from August 12–18, 2007.

The group met farm Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas. Ellison's spokesperson told reporters go off the trip was "a artless extension of his visit anent Iraq" and that "the Harmony East peace issue is leading to the diverse communities refreshing his Minneapolis-area district—from the Somebody Community Relations Council to authority patrons of the Holy Dull Middle Eastern eatery on Tank accumulation Street and Central Avenue.

Bankruptcy hears about it every central theme he goes back to sovereignty district." The group traveled get on the right side of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the northerly Galilee region, and Ramallah, point of view viewed the Israeli border take up again Lebanon.^[130]

During this trip Ellison blunt that Israel did not acquiesce him to travel to Gaza, where a conflict was expansion.

In a 2009 interview resume reporter Shihab Rattansi, Ellison uttered his disappointment at his inadequacy to see the humanitarian on the hop for himself and called all for a more open discussion anticipation Gaza, saying: "The people who have a strong sympathy stand for the Israeli position ... rule the conversation. And it's in reality not politically safe to maintain, look, there are two sides to this, and Israel has not been an angel make real this, and certainly there hold been people on the Mandatory side who have not unbidden to a constructive solution."^[131]

During grandeur summer 2014 conflict between Fto and Israel, Ellison published implication editorial in The Washington Post that called for an draw from to the blockade in Gaza.

Citing his three trips set a limit Gaza since 2009, Ellison unexpressed that empowering Gazans by cessation the blockade would weaken freedom fighters and help move towards parting status peace.^[133]

Gaza and Sderot

On Feb 19, 2009, Ellison and gentleman Representative Brian Baird visited Gaza to view the destruction immigrant the Gaza War and oppose meet with international and regional relief agencies, including the Mutual Nations Relief and Works Means for Palestine Refugees in high-mindedness Near East.

This visit, which Ellison and Baird say frank not have the official ratification of the Obama administration, was the first time any U.S. government official had entered Gaza in more than three years.^[134] Ellison said: “The stories get the wrong impression about the children affected me blue blood the gentry most. No parent, or in unison who cares for kids, potty remain unmoved by what Brian and I saw here.“^[135] High-mindedness following day Ellison and Baird visited the Israeli towns defer to Sderot and Ashkelon, which were the targets of numerous Qassam rocket attacks, repeatedly launched free yourself of within the Gaza Strip.^[135]

Norway

Ellison visited Norway in January 2008 owing to of Norway's prominent role bring in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, prep added to because of the Norwegian-American gift of many of his evidence.

While there, Ellison met channel of communication former Norwegian prime minister Kjell Magne Bondevik, then president declining the Oslo Center for Placidness and Human Rights. The Star Tribune reported that the "trip underscores Ellison's desire to lob a role in the intercontinental peace movement."^[136][137]

Africa

In mid-2008, Ellison united a U.S.

House Democracy Backing Commission delegation that traveled feign six African countries, including Liberia, Democratic Republic of the River, Malawi, Mauritania and Kenya. Flood in returning, Ellison said: "The multitude of the 5th congressional partition [his own] know that, incorporate this globalized world, to imitate peace and security relies make your mind up other people having a bit of peace and security." Settle down attended a July 4 welcome at the U.S.

ambassador's house in Nairobi, Kenya, where Writer met Sarah Hussein Onyango Obama, the step-grandmother of then-presidential nominee Barack Obama.^[138]

Advocacy for American Muslims

With his victory to the Allied States House of Representatives Writer became the first Muslim vote for to the U.S.

Congress playing field the highest Muslim elected criminal in the United States, allow Congressman André Carson elected confine 2008, as the only badger Muslim serving in the U.S. Congress.^[139] Ellison's election has back number seen as inspirational to Inhabitant Muslims, and he encourages city empowerment through participation in position political process.^[140][141] Ellison generally "downplayed the role of religion dust his drive for office",^[142] on the other hand he has become active gratify advocacy for Muslim American subject engagement and civil rights causes on a national level since.^{[143][144][145][146]}

North American Imams Federation

On November 18, 2006, Ellison gave a speaking called "Imams and Politics" show consideration for the Fourth Annual Body Consultation of the North American Imams Federation.

The Federation's materials suave the issues to be sketch in Ellison's speech as follows: "Many Muslims around the Pooled States are involved in civil activities at different levels. Scrutiny the sensitivity of political issues and the potential for divisiveness within the communities as deft result of divergent political views, Imams must be able deliver to provide Muslims with the apt guidance and educate them public image the etiquettes of any national involvement within the Islamic environment.

Questions also arise on like it Imams and Islamic centers requirement be involved in politics energy all and what the room of this involvement should bait, therefore Imams should have character ability to address these dealings. Overall, it is important rove Imams are aware and say you will the general political climate trip their communities and be chiefly conversant with the issues become absent-minded affect Muslims." Ellison also took part in "Community Night" go-slow Imam Siraj Wahhaj, and Muhammadan Dr.

Omar Shahin. This was "for Imams to meet gain interact with community members."^[147] Wearying of the participants of that meeting became involved in character Flying Imams controversy after actuality removed from an Arizona wiped out plane for "concerning behavior".^[148] Author became involved in this disputation shortly after it erupted in the way that he attempted to arrange fine meeting between parties including Unfaltering Airways executives, the Metropolitan Airports Commission, and other legislators station community members.^[149]

MOSES interfaith group

On Dec 27, 2006, Ellison spoke affluence a meeting in Holy Rescuer Catholic Church in Detroit divulge Metropolitan Organizing Strategy Enabling Robustness (MOSES).

The meeting was hang together leaders from the Catholic, Monotheism, and Arab-American communities, along take up again members of the organized have movement. He told those accumulate attendance that the principles nominate Islam guide his life, on the other hand he has no intention get through imposing his faith on remainder, "I'm not a religious head, I've never led religious amenities of any kind.

I'm pule here to be a missionary, but in terms of civic agenda items, my faith informs me."^[150] He addressed the Qur'an Oath controversy of the 110 United States Congress and spoken that he hoped religion could be a uniting, rather go one better than a dividing force: "They've not till hell freezes over actually tried to explore howsoever religion should connect us, they're into how religion divides in the money.

... They haven't really explored ... how my faith connects me to you."^[150]

Promoting U.S. pounce on the State Department

Two months funding taking office, Ellison met date Secretary of State Condoleezza Responsibility and other top State Turnoff officials to talk about "showcasing his story as part endorse their public diplomacy efforts put in the Muslim world." According combat the Star Tribune, Ellison was "profiled three times by interpretation State Department's overseas press bureau." He also "did a Tab of America interview from circlet office, where an American pennon was placed conspicuously behind fulfil desk for the cameras." Drain liquid from the interview which was inception to play in the Midway East and South Asia, Writer stressed global inclusiveness and quoted verse 49:13 of the Qur'an "Oh humanity, We created boss around from a single pair".

Writer also accepted the Bush administration's request to be part provision a "teleconference with Karen Industrialist, the State Department's undersecretary towards public diplomacy. The White The boards has asked that the teleconferencing promote American values and play ideological support for terrorism circumnavigate the world." The Voice disagree with America applauded Ellison's cooperation maxim "He is the most popular freshman congressman in the world."^[151]

After he took his oath reproach office he was surrounded in and out of the foreign press, intrigued take away part by the oath question, who "had to be ushered out of his office funding he took his oath everywhere make room for home-state information crews." Ellison has been "featured in a series of assumptions agree written for foreign dissemination stop the Department's Bureau of Worldwide Information Programs." Including an matter that was translated into Farsi and Arabic that "highlighted ethics diversity of his constituents instruction Minnesota, ranging from Swedes esoteric Norwegians to 'the largest African immigrant community in America.'" Story his work in cooperation critical of the state department, Ellison stresses the religious freedom available gather the U.S., saying things materialize "religious tolerance has a well-known longer pedigree in America escape some of the intolerance we've seen lately." Even in sovereignty work with the State Wing he remained critical of Leader Bush's Iraq policy saying "he wants people around the environment to know that 'there tricky many Americans who want effect relate to the rest mention the world in terms match cooperation, not military domination.'" Writer staffers told reporters that "the State Department has shown ham-fisted signs of squeamishness about flyer his criticism of the war." When asked about working industrial action elements of the Bush management Ellison said "Hey, my land first.

We can work ditch our political differences later. I've said I'm willing to secede whatever I can to put a label on some friends for America."^[151]

Public profile

Interview with Glenn Beck

On November 14, 2006, Glenn Beck of CNN Headline News said to Author, "I have been nervous draw up to this interview with you, by reason of what I feel like adage is, 'Sir, prove to walk that you are not necessary with our enemies.' And Farcical know you're not.

I'm shout accusing you of being alteration enemy, but that's the hindrance I feel, and I dream a lot of Americans prerogative feel that way."^[152] Ellison replied that his constituents, "know cruise I have a deep passion and affection for my sovereign state. There's no one who's mega patriotic than I am, post so you know, I don't need to — need sound out prove my patriotic stripes."^[153]

When gratuitously by Beck for his point of view on Muslim extremists, Ellison replied, "They're criminals.

But I determine that people who commit dreadful acts should be treated all but criminals, regardless of their faith."^[152] He also said, "Osama case Laden no more represents Religion than Timothy McVeigh represented Christianity."^[154] Asked about the incident adjacent, Ellison dismissed it, saying, "It's just shock TV.

Some pundits think they have to covering the most outrageous questions."^[155]

On Jan 2, 2007, Beck said typical his radio program that Author did not take offense conjure up the comments and the deuce had a friendly chat diversion the air. On January 9, 2007, at the Television Critics Association's semiannual press tour, Stream said it was "Quite maybe the poorest-worded question of grapple time." He clarified by adage, "My point to Keith Writer ...

is the same container that I make to wooly own faith, and that is—you must stand up before nonconforming get out of control ... And it's important for punters of all faiths, when accommodating is hijacking their religion, authorization stand and say, 'That psychotherapy not what we do. Divagate is not who we are."'^[156]

Nation of Islam affiliation

As a find fault with student in 1989 and 1990 Ellison wrote several columns go downwards the name "Keith E.

Hakim" in the student newspaper, character Minnesota Daily. He defended Gladiator Farrakhan against claims of racism,^[157] and further wrote that Farrakhan "is also not an anti-Semite" and called affirmative action spruce "sneaky" form of compensation apply for slavery, suggesting that white Americans instead pay reparations to blacks.^{[158][31][159][160]}Mother Jones reported that, under high-mindedness name "Keith X Ellison," earth wrote defenses of Farrakhan clashing accusations of antisemitism after loftiness 1995 Million Man March, essential again in 1997.^[161] James Muhammad, a former leader of glory Nation of Islam's Twin Cities study group, has said roam Ellison served for several as the group's "chief range protocol", in which capacity elegance acted as a liaison amidst Muhammad and local communities.^[161]

Denunciation hold the Nation of Islam throw 2006

During Ellison's 2006 campaign Popular blogger Michael Brodkorb^[162] unearthed posts about Ellison's Minnesota Daily locution and his involvement with authority Nation of Islam.

In solve Ellison wrote a letter deceive the Jewish Community Relations Synod of Minnesota & the Dakotas stating he had never antique a member, and that emperor connections with the Nation forfeited Islam were limited to be over 18-month period during which noteworthy helped organize the Minnesota company at the 1995 Million Mortal March.^{[23][31][163]} In 2016, CNN referred instead to Ellison's "decade-long condition in the Nation of Islam".^[164] Ellison's letter denounced the Mental picture of Islam and Farrakhan: "I wrongly dismissed concerns that they [Farrakhan's remarks] were anti-Semitic.

They were and are anti-Semitic person in charge I should have come hug that conclusion earlier than Hysterical did".^[165] He explained his foregoing views by saying that unwind "did not adequately scrutinize honourableness positions and statements of say publicly Nation of Islam, Louis Farrakhan, and Khalid Muhammed." He along with wrote, "any kind of favouritism and hate are wrong.

That has always been my position". During the 2006 campaign haunt prominent Jewish DFL activists spare Ellison, including fundraisers Samuel bear Sylvia Kaplan and State Seller Phyllis Kahn, who said niggardly was "inconceivable that he could have ever been an antisemite."^[31]

Campaign contributions from members of CAIR

During the 2006 election Nihad Awad, executive director of the Consistory on American–Islamic Relations (CAIR) see James Yee, the former Muhammadan chaplain at Guantanamo Bay, strut at an August 25 fundraiser for Ellison.^[31][166] Awad and Writer knew each other as they attended the University of Minnesota Law School at the amount to time.^[10][167] According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Ellison accepted marked contributions from Nihad Awad bear another leader of CAIR; Writer responded that he had kind disclosed all contributions and articulated that he had "nothing rear hide".^[168] Ellison stressed that sand was supported by individuals, scold that the non-profit organization strike did not endorse his candidacy.^[169] His Republican opponent in authority race, Alan Fine, criticized Writer for accepting these contributions, expression that CAIR was "a piece that Democrats say has hollow ties to terrorism".^[170] In reply to Ellison's opponents, CAIR dazzling Parvez Ahmed and Nihad Awad wrote, "We are proud indicate our personal donations to Ellison's campaign" and derided any 'guilt by association' arguments.^[171]

Reichstag fire dowel 9/11

On July 8, 2007, Author discussed the power of honesty executive branch in a blarney before the organization Atheists escort Human Rights.

He said drift Dick Cheney said it was "beneath his dignity in progression for him to answer impractical questions from the citizens break into the United States. That wreckage the very definition of repression, authoritarianism and dictatorship."^[172] He went on to say, "It's practically like the Reichstag fire, amiable of reminds me of desert.

After the Reichstag was turn, they blamed the Communists sect it and it put leadership leader of that country, Bully, in a position where dirt could basically have authority around do whatever he wanted. Probity fact is that I'm yowl saying September 11 was organized U.S. plan or anything need that because, you know, that's how they put you breach the nut-ball box — unseat you."^[172]

Fox News picked up nobility story^[173] and their commentator Can Gibson categorized Ellison's comments rightfully accusing President George W.

Scrub "of planning and executing high-mindedness 9/11 attacks".^[174] In Congress, Representatives Eric Cantor and Zach Wamp wrote House Speaker Nancy Pelosi demanding she "swiftly and immediately" reprimand Ellison for his remarks. The letter said, "Even in case Ellison asserts that he was not implying that 9/11 was orchestrated by the administration, description comparison he draws between Bully and the President of Combined States is disgraceful.

These comments inflame hatred and division warrant a time when we be promoting our unity turf reconciliation."^[176] The Anti-Defamation League further said: "Whatever his views could be on the administration's receive to 9/11 and the run of the war on zealotry, likening it to Hitler's deceive to power and Nazism psychoanalysis odious and demeans the boobs of 9/11 and the bold American men and women booked in the war on dread.

Furthermore, it demonstrates a unlimited lack of understanding about authority horrors that Hitler and fulfil Nazi regime perpetrated."

When later problematical about his comments, Ellison resonant a reporter that Osama silo Laden, and not the Herb administration, was responsible for justness attacks.^[177] He added, "In goodness aftermath of a tragedy, move away is opened up for governments to take action that they could not have achieved already that." He pointed to representation Iraq War and provisions conj admitting greater arrest and surveillance capabilities within the USA PATRIOT Play as examples.^[178] Ellison also said:

In response to a examination, I stated that the Inferior Administration exploited post-9/11 fears be bounded by advance a policy agenda mosey has undermined our civil liberties.

I stand by this acknowledgment. ... I want to snigger clear that the murderous Dictatorial regime is historically distinct person in charge the horror of the Devastation must be acknowledged as unblended unique event in human world. I did not intend brutish direct comparison between the authoritarian state of Nazi Germany folk tale the current administration.

I maintain taken consistent and strong stands against Holocaust denial throughout tongue-tied life in public service.

Representative Fee Sali of Idaho drew blame for his comments in fleece August 8, 2007, interview state the conservative Christian-based American Parentage News Network. Sali, an obstreperous Evangelical Christian, denounced the Legislature leadership for allowing a Asian to lead the opening plea, claiming that the non-Christian orison threatened to endanger America dampen removing "the protective hand livestock God."^[179] Former Democratic Idaho bureaucrat Richard Stallings, among others, needed that Sali either apologize symbolize resign.

In response, Sali twist and turn Ellison an email saying sharp-tasting "meant no offense".^[180] Ellison was in Iraq