A dispute over the state’s new private school voucher program has escalated, with Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock requesting that the attorney general’s office shut down Houston Quran Academy. Hancock alleges the school has ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, an organization Governor Greg Abbott has designated as a terrorist organization.
Escalating Conflict
In a letter sent Tuesday, Hancock accused Houston Quran Academy of having “documented ties” to the Muslim Brotherhood, citing a 1991 memo. He urged Attorney General Ken Paxton to revoke the school’s charter. Hancock’s move represents his most assertive effort yet to prevent Islamic private schools from accessing funds from the $1 billion voucher program.
Houston Quran Academy, which primarily serves Muslim students, was admitted to the program this week after a federal judge issued a temporary ruling. Families and groups had sued the state, arguing that excluding Islamic schools from the program amounted to religious discrimination. The academy has previously denied any connections to terrorist groups.
Hancock’s office confirmed the letter’s authenticity but offered no further comment. Paxton’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Political Fallout
The situation quickly became entangled in existing political tensions. Paxton responded to Hancock’s letter via social media, calling for Hancock’s removal as acting Comptroller and suggesting Don Huffines, who recently defeated Hancock in the GOP primary for the position, should replace him. Paxton described Hancock as a “Never Trumper” and an “incompetent loser.”
Hancock’s agency had previously blocked roughly two-dozen Muslim private schools from participating in the voucher program. Hancock and Paxton have previously disagreed on the enforcement of Texas’ terrorism laws. Hancock was also one of two Republican state senators who voted to impeach Paxton on corruption charges, though Paxton was ultimately acquitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Hancock’s letter?
Hancock’s letter was prompted by his concern that Houston Quran Academy has ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, an organization Governor Abbott has designated as a terrorist organization.
What is the status of Houston Quran Academy’s participation in the voucher program?
Houston Quran Academy was admitted to the program following a temporary ruling from a federal judge, but its continued participation is now in question following Hancock’s request to the attorney general.
What was Ken Paxton’s response to Hancock’s letter?
Ken Paxton responded by calling for Hancock’s removal from office and publicly criticizing him on social media.
As this situation unfolds, will the ongoing legal challenges and political disputes ultimately determine the future of school choice in Texas?
