Gabriel claimed in interviews that devout Muslims who strictly follow Islamic texts and rituals could be considered radicals. Statements like these have drawn considerable backlash, reinforcing her image among critics as promoting anti-Muslim rhetoric rather than targeting extremists specifically.

ACT for America and Public Perception

Gabriel is the founder of ACT for America, a national security-focused organization she characterizes as nonpartisan and nonreligious. However, various organizations, including the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Council on American-Islamic Relations, label it as one of the most powerful anti-Muslim advocacy groups in the country. According to The Guardian, ACT for America is widely identified as propagating anti-Muslim sentiment.

In 2004, Gabriel delivered a controversial talk at Duke University, where she reportedly referred to Arabs as "barbarians," sparking public apologies from event organizers. At a 2007 conference hosted by Christians United for Israel, she made similarly inflammatory remarks, contrasting the morality of Israel with what she described as the “barbarism” of the Arab world.

Criticism and Response

Gabriel has consistently denied being anti-Muslim, affirming that she opposes ideologies that threaten democratic values and human rights, regardless of the religion involved. “I would fight with the same passion if crazy Christians were trying to do that, if crazy Jews were trying to do that,” she stated, defending her position as rooted in defense of freedom and human dignity. She added that many Muslims are peaceful and unfamiliar with extremist interpretations of their faith.

Political Influence and Legacy

Gabriel and her organization have reportedly had access to influential political circles, particularly during the Donald Trump administration. In late 2017, Gabriel claimed that ACT for America had a “direct line” to the former president. Reports from Vox detailed links between high-level Trump appointees, including John Bolton and Mike Pompeo, and various anti-Islamic writers and activists such as Gabriel.

Analysts and commentators have raised concerns about her organization’s growing influence. Peter Beinart of The Atlantic described her as "America's most prominent anti-Muslim activist," while BuzzFeed News called her the “most influential leader in America’s increasingly influential anti-Islam lobby.” Despite the controversy, Gabriel has built a substantial platform among those concerned about national security and terrorism.