Former Texas GOP Leader Declines Mosque Invitation

Tarrant County Republican Party ex-chair cites security concerns for not attending event.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Bo French, the former chairman of the Tarrant County Republican Party in Texas, declined an invitation to attend an event at the Masjid AlSalam mosque in Spring, Texas. French said his security team had advised against attending the event due to safety concerns.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing tensions and mistrust between some conservative political groups and Muslim communities in the United States. It also raises questions about how to foster greater understanding and dialogue across different religious and political divides.

The details

French, who previously served as the Tarrant County GOP chair, was invited to attend an event at the Masjid AlSalam mosque in Spring, Texas. However, French said his security team had advised him against attending the event, citing safety concerns. French did not provide any further details about the specific nature of the security risks.

  • The event at the Masjid AlSalam mosque was scheduled for an unspecified date.

The players

Bo French

The former chairman of the Tarrant County Republican Party in Texas.

Masjid AlSalam mosque

A mosque located in Spring, Texas.

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What they’re saying

“My security team advised against attending the event at the Masjid AlSalam mosque.”

— Bo French, Former Tarrant County Republican Party Chair (Houston Chronicle)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in building trust and fostering dialogue between some conservative political groups and Muslim communities in the United States, underscoring the need for greater understanding and open communication across divides.