Speaker Johnson to bring daughter of detained Uyghur doctor as SOTU guest
The Hill
by Emily BrooksFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has invited Ziba Murat, the daughter of a Uyghur doctor detained in China since 2018, to attend the State of the Union address as his guest. This move aims to highlight the case of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, who remains imprisoned alongside her sister Rushan Abbas, sparking concerns over China's treatment of ethnic minorities.
Ziba Murat’s mother, Dr. Gulshan Abbas, was detained in 2018 amid a broader crackdown on Uyghurs in Xinjiang. The invitation underscores the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China regarding human rights issues. By bringing Ziba as a guest, Johnson seeks to bring attention to her family's plight and critique China's policies.
This decision reflects Johnson’s strategic approach to using high-profile events like the State of the Union for political messaging. It highlights the intersection of domestic politics and international relations, potentially influencing U.S.-China dynamics. The move could also galvanize support among those concerned with human rights, aligning with Republican narratives on China's actions.
Domestically, this invitation may strengthen ties with constituents focused on human rights and provide a platform for addressing ethnic persecution. It positions the issue as a key topic in American politics, potentially shaping debates on U.S. engagement with China.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/23/2026