Donald Trump is facing criticism after making controversial comments about Somali immigrants during a recent Cabinet meeting.
While discussing fraud investigations linked to COVID relief programs, Trump claimed that Somali immigrants in Minnesota were “all crooks” and also targeted Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar.
The president’s remarks quickly drew attention online and added to the long-running tensions between Trump and Omar.
Trump Targets Somali Community During Cabinet Meeting
During the meeting, Trump criticised Somali immigrants living in Minnesota while praising the work of Vice President JD Vance’s fraud task force.
Trump claimed Somali immigrants had negatively affected Minnesota and accused them of widespread corruption. He also directly called Ilhan Omar “crooked,” though he did not explain the accusation or provide evidence.
Omar’s office did not immediately respond publicly to the comments.
Comments Linked to Minnesota Fraud Cases
Trump’s remarks appeared connected to recent fraud investigations involving COVID-19 relief programs in Minnesota.
Federal authorities previously charged dozens of individuals in connection with fraud schemes that reportedly involved more than $1 billion in stolen pandemic relief funds.
According to earlier reports from the Minnesota U.S. attorney’s office, many of the people arrested were Somali Americans. However, officials have not accused the wider Somali community of involvement.
One of the central figures convicted in the case was Aimee Bock, who is not Somali. She was recently sentenced to nearly 42 years in prison for her role in the fraud scheme.
Trump Has Repeatedly Criticised Somali Immigrants
This is not the first time Trump has made controversial statements about Somali immigrants or Ilhan Omar.
In previous speeches, he claimed Somali immigrants had damaged Minnesota and argued that Omar should not serve in Congress. He also made harsh comments about Somalia itself, describing the country negatively during campaign-style appearances.
Trump’s statements have frequently sparked backlash from civil rights groups and political critics, who accuse him of promoting anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Ilhan Omar Previously Responded to Trump
Ilhan Omar has responded to Trump’s comments before, defending Somali Americans and rejecting his criticism.
After similar remarks made by Trump last year, Omar wrote on social media that Somali Americans are “here to stay” and accused the president of spreading bigotry.
Omar, who was born in Somalia, became one of the first Somali American members of Congress after being elected in Minnesota.
Debate Over Immigration and Political Language Continues
Trump’s latest comments are expected to increase debate around immigration, political rhetoric, and community relations in the United States.
Supporters of the president argue that he is highlighting concerns about fraud and public safety, while critics say his comments unfairly target an entire immigrant community.
The controversy also comes during a politically tense period as immigration remains one of the most discussed issues in American politics.
