The imam behind a proposed Islamic cultural center near the World Trade Center site reportedly says the upcoming elections in the United States are to blame for much of the opposition to the project.

In an interview with Abu Dhabi's "The National" newspaper published today, Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf says the election season has had a major impact on the nature of the debate.

Rauf did not cite any particular political race possibly tied to the protests, but many Republican candidates and some Democrats have come out against the proposed center, which includes a mosque.

The project has drawn criticism from some who consider it insensitive to build so close to the site of the September 11th terrorist attacks.

Rauf also says the struggles facing Muslims in America are similar to past prejudices against other religious groups, including Jews and Roman Catholics.