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CHEROKEE, Iowa – Referencing the recent Easter season, Iowa 4th District Rep. Steve King said Tuesday the criticism he's faced from his "accusers" in the U.S. House has given him “better insight into what (Christ) went through for us."

"For all that I've been through -- and it seems even strange for me to say it -- but I am at a certain peace, and it is because of a lot of prayers for me," King told about 30 people at a town hall meeting in Cherokee.

“And, when I have to step down to the floor of the House of Representatives, and look up at those 400-and-some accusers, you know we just passed through Easter and Christ's passion, and I have better insight into what He went through for us partly because of that experience."

The story of Jesus Christ's crucifixion is central to Christianity. The final period in Jesus' life, starting with his triumphal entry into Jerusalem and ending with his crucifixion and death on Good Friday is commonly referred to as Christ's passion.

King’s comments Tuesday came in response to a question from The Rev. Pinky Person of Cherokee. Person cited how Christian principles can boost the nation toward healing and solving problems, adding, "My concern is how Christianity is really being persecuted. It is starting right here in the United States."