A Republican leader in Texas has stirred controversy for his comments about a 90-foot Lord Hanuman statue in Sugar Land, Texas.
Republican leader Alexander Duncan objected to a statue of the Hindu deity described as the ‘Statue of Union’ being built in Texas, claiming it affronted the United States as a Christian nation.
“Why are we allowing a false statue of a false Hindu God to be here in Texas? We are a CHRISTIAN nation,” Alexander Duncan wrote on X on September 20, along with a video of the statue located at Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas.
In another post, the leader of President Donald Trump’s party, who is running for election to the Senate to represent Texas, quoted the Bible and said, “You must not have any other god but me. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea.” Exodus 20:3-4.”
“They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.’ Romans 1:25.” he said.
The Hindu American Foundation objects
Duncan’s comments drew backlash online. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) denounced him for “anti-Hindu and incendiary” posts. The group also contacted the Texas Republican Party to file a complaint about him.
“Hello @TexasGOP, will you be disciplining your senate candidate from your party who openly contravenes your own guidelines against discrimination-displaying some pretty sordid anti-Hindu hate-not to mention disrespect for the 1st Amendment’s Establishment Clause?” the Hindu American Foundation posted.
Who is Alexander Duncan?
Duncan is a Republican who is planning to run in the Texas US Senate race in 2026. Duncan is originally from Valencia, California, where he graduated from West Ranch High School. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 2012 from the University of California, Irvine and received a graduate degree at Northeastern University in 2020. His work experience includes being a law enforcement officer.
During his campaign, Duncan has been referencing traditional conservative values, including faith, family, and freedom.
What is the Statue of Union?
The Statue of Union, located at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas, is considered to be North America’s tallest Hanuman statue at 90 feet. The purpose of the statue is to represent strength, devotion, and service. The statue was conceptualized by Sri Chinnajeeyar Swamiji and was unveiled on August 18, 2024.
Also Read: Donald Trump’s Republican leader calls Hanuman statue ‘False Hindu God’, sparks row
