Rep Ellison decries 'fear mongering' by GOP candidates

Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement Sunday, after comments made by GOP presidential candidates Ben Carson and Donald Trump:

"The freedom of religion is a founding principle of our nation. Our Constitution gives this right to all Americans -- including elected officials. For Ben Carson, Donald Trump, or any other Republican politician to suggest that someone of any faith is unfit for office is out of touch with who we are as a people. It's unimaginable that the leading GOP presidential candidates are resorting to fear mongering to benefit their campaigns, and every American should be disturbed that these national figures are engaging in and tolerating blatant acts of religious bigotry."