Senate committee: Religion-based entry to US is un-American

Washington: A Senate committee has rebuked Donald Trump by endorsing a measure that says barring individuals from entering the United States based on religion would be un-American.

The Republican presidential front-runner has called for blocking Muslims from entering the country in the aftermath of attacks in the United States and abroad.

The Senate Judiciary Committee today voted 16-4 for the nonbinding amendment pushed by Democratic Sen. Patrick Leahy.

The four Republicans who opposed it included presidential candidate Ted Cruz of Texas.

Cruz was not present but voted by proxy, as is regular practice when lawmaker cannot attend a committee vote.

Leahy says the amendment sends “a clear and direct message that America welcomes people from all countries of all faiths.