'I'm concerned that these comments have a chilling effect, telling people that they have to choose between their First Amendment right or their Second Amendment right.' Rob Doar, President of the Minnesota Gun Owners Law Center, reacts to comments from WH officials after the shooting of Alex Pretti. | Jake Tapper

An official definition of Islamophobia — now repackaged as “anti-Muslim hostility” — will have a chilling effect on free speech and inflame already fragile community tensions. If the government presses ahead, it risks reintroducing Britain’s blasphemy laws and effectively banning criticism of Islam and its practices. It would also silence discussion of vital issues, including the grooming gangs scandal and Islamist extremism. In a free society, no religion should be afforded greater protection t