Muslim American activists are working hard to have an impact on the next U.S. election.

Just over three million Muslims live in the United States, only about one percent of the population. But activists say they can make a difference in closely contested states like Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio.

CCTV’s Nitza Soledad Perez reports. Follow Nitza Soledad Perez on Twitter @NitzaSoledad

Terror attacks by radical Islamists around the world have contributed to an increase in anti-Muslim sentiment in the United States. Those who share this sentiment will point to last year’s San Bernardino shootings carried out by a radicalized Muslim couple, or the Orlando nightclub shooting in June.

Donald Trump’s call for a ban on all Muslim immigration spurred many Muslim Americans into action to combat Islamophobia and get voters registered,though Trump has since refined his position to say he favors what he calls “extreme vetting” from nations, “compromised by terrorism.” Trump’s attacks on the parents of a fallen Muslim American soldier are also frequently cited as reason to get involved.

Syrian refugee reflects on his year in the US

Mohamad Sayadi is a long way from home. The 24-year old Syrian refugee is now working at a liquor store in the U.S. state of Kentucky.

CCTV America’s Roee Ruttenberg reports on his story. Follow Roee Ruttenberg on Twitter @RoeeRuttenberg

Mohamad works hard, but sends most of the money he earns back to his family in Jordan.

When we first met Mohamad a year ago, he had just arrived in the U.S. and spoke no English.

He was talking with his family every day, a routine he still follows, religiously.

Wardah Khalid discusses American perception of Muslims

To discuss in details the role of Muslim-Americans in this year’s presidential election, CCTV America’s Mike Walter spoke with Wardah Khalid, analyst on Middle East policy and Muslim American issues.