Top Republicans have sought to distance themselves from Trump’s remarks on Muslims. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell refused to answer questions about Trump at his weekly news conference, but told The Huffington Post Trump’s ban is a “bad idea” and there are “an awful lot of patriotic, loyal American Muslims.” House Speaker Paul Ryan also criticized Trump’s remarks.

House Speaker Paul Ryan: “I do not think a Muslim ban is in our country’s interest. I do not think it is reflective of our principles, not just as a party, but as a country. And I think the smarter way to go, in all respects, is to have a security test and not a religious test.”