Rep. Randy Fine (R-FL) has sparked a heated nationwide conversation after responding to a New York activist’s controversial comments on dogs as indoor pets.
Fine, representing Florida’s 6th Congressional District, fired back against Nerdeen Kiswani, a Muslim activist and founder of the group Within Our Lifetime (WOL), whose remarks ignited criticism for targeting a practice deeply cherished by Americans.
Kiswani, in a post on X, stated, “Finally, NYC is coming to Islam. Dogs definitely have a place in society, just not as indoor pets. Like we’ve said all along, they are unclean.”
While she later claimed the tweet was intended as a joke, the backlash quickly spread across social media.
Fine, who is Jewish, responded sharply to the post.
“If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one,” he wrote.
The tweet quickly went viral, drawing both condemnation and support.
Progressive figures, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA), labeled Fine’s remarks Islamophobic, while conservative voices praised his defense of pets and cultural norms.
Kiswani’s record of activism provides context to the controversy.
Over the past decade, she has been a vocal supporter of Palestinian causes, frequently opposing Israel and endorsing the slogan “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” a statement widely interpreted as advocating the elimination of the Jewish state.
Her public history includes rallies, social media posts praising violent attacks against Israel, and a 2022 CUNY Law School commencement address criticizing Israel and its supporters, according to Israel 365 News.
The debate has underscored the cultural significance of dogs in American life.
New York City alone is home to over 600,000 dogs, and the local pet economy exceeds $1.5 billion annually.
Many residents celebrate pets with birthday parties, clothing, and other amenities, reflecting a societal embrace of animals as family members.
Within this context, Fine’s defense resonated with Americans who view pet ownership as a core value.
Religious tradition also frames part of the discussion.
Islamic law often considers dogs ritually impure in certain circumstances, limiting contact primarily to guarding, hunting, or farm work.
In contrast, Jewish law emphasizes stewardship and protection of animals, a viewpoint that aligns with Fine’s stance.
The debate over indoor pets has become symbolic of broader tensions between religious interpretation and mainstream cultural norms in the U.S.
Fine’s political career highlights his willingness to confront left-wing activists and defend widely held American values.
Elected in a 2025 special election to replace former Rep. Mike Waltz, he has repeatedly challenged progressive figures and policies, making the dog controversy a continuation of his broader approach, according to WJLA.
Supporters argue his remarks reflect a commitment to defending constituents’ priorities, even in the face of social media uproar.
As the debate continues, it raises larger questions about free speech, cultural priorities, and the limits of political correctness.
Fine’s remarks, while unconventional, have sparked national discussion about balancing respect for religious beliefs with protecting long-standing social norms and traditions.
The episode also highlights the double standard some perceive in how political and media elites treat criticism of Muslims versus other religious groups in America.
