Who is Alexander Duncan, Texas Republican under fire for ‘false Hindu God’ comment on Hanuman statue?
Alexander Duncan, a Texas Republican Senate candidate, ignites controversy with remarks labelling a Hanuman statue a ‘false Hindu God’. His comments spark outrage from the Hindu American Foundation and raise questions about religious respect and tolerance in America.
A Texas Republican leader has sparked a row over his remarks on a 90-foot statue of Lord Hanuman in the United States city of Sugar Land.
Republican leader Alexander Duncan objected to the construction of the Hindu deity's statue, called the ‘Statue of Union', in Texas. Duncan raised objections, insisting that the United States is 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.
Hindu American Foundation objects
Duncan’s remarks drew criticism online. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) slammed him for “anti-Hindu and inflammatory" posts. The group also filed a formal complaint with the Texas Republican Party, urging action against 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 planning to run for the US Senate in Texas (for the 2026 election).
Born in Valencia, California, Duncan graduated from West Ranch High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Irvine, in 2012 and a graduate degree from Northeastern University in 2020. His career experience includes working as a law enforcement officer.
Throughout his campaign, Duncan has been emphasising conservative values like faith, family, and individual freedom.
What is the Statue of Union?
The Statue of Union, set up at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas, is said to be North America’s tallest Hanuman statue at 90 feet. Depicting strength, devotion, and service, it was envisioned by Sri Chinnajeeyar Swamiji and unveiled on August 18, 2024.
Named after Hanuman’s role in uniting Lord Ram with Sita, the statue aims to serve as a spiritual hub — spreading hope, peace, and devotion for generations to come.
(With agency inputs)