I would have to have people totally committed to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of this United States. And many of the Muslims, they are not totally dedicated to this country. They are not dedicated to our Constitution. Many of them are trying to force Sharia law on the people of this country.

In this quote, Herman Cain emphasizes the importance of being committed to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States as fundamental principles for anyone involved in American governance. He argues that individuals, particularly Muslims, who are not fully dedicated to these foundational documents, may pose a threat to American values. Cain expresses concern that some Muslims in the U.S. are attempting to impose Sharia law, which he views as incompatible with the U.S. Constitution and its democratic principles.

The origin of this statement lies in Cain’s stance as a Republican politician and businessman, where he often discussed issues related to American values, immigration, and national security. During his campaign for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, Cain positioned himself as a staunch defender of American values and the Constitution, framing these beliefs as essential for the country's future. His quote was likely made in response to concerns about the influence of Islamic law on American legal and cultural systems.

Cain's reference to Sharia law reflects a fear held by some conservatives that Islamic practices could challenge the supremacy of American laws and values. His statement suggests that loyalty to the U.S. Constitution and its principles of freedom should be non-negotiable, and he implies that those who are not fully committed to these values could undermine the nation. This view echoes broader political concerns about the integration of immigrant communities and the protection of American identity.

Ultimately, Cain’s words point to the broader issue of cultural assimilation and loyalty to American ideals. His concerns about Sharia law reflect a larger debate over the compatibility of Islamic practices with Western democratic principles, particularly in the context of immigration and national security. The quote illustrates how these issues are often framed in terms of maintaining the integrity of the U.S. Constitution and safeguarding American freedoms from external influence.