Fine to introduce Protecting Puppies from Sharia Act amid criticism over post
The Hill
by Emily BrooksFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.) has sparked controversy by announcing plans to introduce the "Protecting Puppies from Sharia Act," a bill aimed at supporting dog ownership while addressing criticism over his recent social media post advocating for choosing dogs over Muslims. The legislation, which is still in its early stages, seeks to block federal funds from flowing to states or local governments that prioritize policies influenced by Sharia law over the rights of dog owners. This move has drawn sharp backlash from critics who view it as a misguided attempt to divert attention from his earlier remarks.
The bill's title and premise have been widely criticized for being both inflammatory and vague. While its primary focus appears to be on safeguarding puppy rights, opponents argue that the language used—specifically the mention of Sharia law—serves as a political wedge issue. Critics say this approach risks alienating Muslim communities and undermines efforts to promote unity in a deeply divided political climate. Supporters, however, defend the measure as a bold stance against perceived threats to American values.
Fine's decision to introduce this bill comes amid growing scrutiny over his earlier social media post, which compared loyalty to dogs with allegiance to cultural or religious identities. His critics contend that such comments and subsequent actions are emblematic of broader trends in U.S. politics, where polarization often overshadows constructive dialogue. The proposed legislation has been framed as both a response to and an extension of his controversial remarks, raising questions about its intent and feasibility.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026