USA-MINNESOTA: ***UPDATE***ELLISON***UPDATE***

Muslim congressional candidate low-key about faith

Ever since Democratic state legislator Keith Ellison won a September primary here, he's been held up as a potential groundbreaker: The first Muslim elected to Congress if he can win in November.

But on the campaign trail, Ellison has talked little about his religious background, steering the focus instead to what he calls "the universal human experience" that encompasses all faiths.

"You know, no doubt faith and values are important to people," Ellison said in an interview, "and Islam is a minority religion in America, something that hasn't had much representation."

Beyond that, he said, "I want to talk about peace, getting the troops out of Iraq, justice for the middle class."


Previous posts concerning Ellison & his bid to become the first moslem in Congress:

1) Farrakhan's Candidate

2) American Muslims Rally Around Congressional Candidate Ellison

3) Islamic organization to host Florida fundraiser for Ellison

4) Keith Ellison, possible 1st Muslim in Congress, alleges blackmail


Pertinent Links:

1) Muslim congressional candidate low-key about faith