Thank you for contacting me concerning Daniel Pipes' nomination for the U.S. Institute of Peace.
Daniel Pipes was nominated by President Bush to be a Member of the Board of Directors for the U.S. Institute of Peace on April 2, 2003. Before his nomination can be considered by the full Senate, it must be reported to the floor by the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. A committee hearing was held on his nomination on July 23, but no vote occurred.
Please know that I am aware of the controversy that has arisen concerning Daniel Pipes' nomination and allegations that he is anti-Muslim. However, I believe this criticism does Daniel Pipes an injustice. Many of his statements have been taken out of context. Daniel Pipes is not a critic of Islam generally, but rather of militant Islam ideology. He was an early voice in drawing attention to this threat to world peace and security.
I believe Daniel Pipes would bring a valuable perspective to the Board of the U.S. Institute of Peace. As the Taliban, Iranian Mullahs, and groups such as al-Qaeda and Hamas have proven, peace will not be achieved without addressing the destructive influence of militant Islam.
Thank you once again for taking the time to contact me. I value your input. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future if I can be of further assistance to you.
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