US Midterm Elections 2026: Texas Hanuman Statue Becomes Centre of Political Debate
A 90-foot statue of Lord Hanuman in Sugar Land, Texas, has become the centre of a political and religious debate ahead of the 2026 US midterm elections. The controversy intensified after conservative YouTuber Jesse Hughes called for the statue to be removed, drawing strong criticism from Hindu-American groups and community members.
The statue, known as the Statue of Union, stands at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land. It was consecrated in August 2024 and has previously attracted criticism and protests from some Christian conservative groups.
Why Is the Texas Hanuman Statue in the News?
The latest controversy began after Jesse Hughes shared a photograph of the 90-foot Hanuman statue on social media and wrote that it would be torn down "when we win". He did not specify what election or political outcome he was referring to.
The remark triggered criticism from Hindu-American voices, who said that targeting a place of worship because of its religion raises concerns about religious freedom and intolerance.
US Army veteran Ruchir Bakshi publicly criticised the statement. He described the comments as a threat against the Hindu community and argued that destroying or targeting a Hindu temple would conflict with the principles of religious freedom.
Bakshi's response received support from the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) and Texas-based commentator Carl Wheless. CoHNA said it opposed what it described as religious bigotry directed at the Hindu community.
What Is the Statue of Union?
The Statue of Union is a 90-foot representation of Lord Hanuman located at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas.
According to the temple's official website, the monument represents strength, devotion and selfless service. It was named the "Statue of Union" in reference to Lord Hanuman's role in reuniting Lord Rama and Sita.
The statue has become an important landmark for the Hindu-American community in the Houston area and has attracted visitors since its inauguration in 2024.
Texas Midterm Elections and the Political Debate
The controversy comes as Texas enters the 2026 US midterm election season, with issues including immigration, identity, religion and cultural diversity featuring prominently in political discussions.
Texas has a large Indian-American population, making South Asian communities an increasingly visible part of the state's social and political landscape.
Recent controversies involving comments about South Asian students have also drawn attention during the Texas election campaign. Republican candidate Bo French, who is running for Texas Railroad Commissioner, faced criticism after posting a photograph of University of Texas students celebrating a football victory along with a remark about the students' appearance.
Several Republicans, including Senator John Cornyn, criticised French's post. French later defended his comments and argued that his concerns were related to admissions policies at the University of Texas.
Debate Over Religion and Immigration
The Hanuman statue controversy has become part of a wider discussion about religion, immigration and the growing South Asian-American population in Texas.
Supporters of the Hindu community have argued that religious landmarks should be protected regardless of faith, while criticism of the statue has come from some conservative religious voices.
The episode also highlights how cultural and religious issues can become part of political discussions during an election campaign.
What Happens Next?
For now, the Statue of Union remains at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land. The latest controversy has renewed attention on the monument and on debates surrounding religious freedom, political rhetoric and the role of immigrant communities in Texas.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, the issue is likely to remain part of the broader conversation around religion, immigration and cultural identity in the state.
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