US: Muslim lawmaker takes office in Maryland

The state's first Muslim lawmaker took office, saying he was proud to make history but not interested in being known only for his religion. "I will represent the Muslims, but more importantly, I will represent all the people," he said on his first day of office Wednesday. "I'm a Muslim, but I'm also a resident." The milestone was sweet for Democrat Saqib Ali of Gaithersburg, Maryland, who was targeted by an anti-Muslim protester during his campaign. In August, a protester stood outside his house with an anti-Islam poster and a T-shirt that said, "This mind is an Allah-free zone."