UPDATE: U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and Somali leaders in Minnesota are mobilizing in response to President Donald Trump’s alarming announcement threatening to revoke deportation protections for Somali Minnesotans. Just hours ago, Trump declared on Truth Social that he would terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program for Somalis “effective immediately,” igniting fierce backlash from community officials.
During a press conference at the State Capitol in St. Paul, Omar emphasized that approximately 300 Somalis in Minnesota face uncertainty as their TPS status, currently set to expire on March 17, 2026, hangs in the balance. “It is unfortunate that we are led by a president who does not understand the laws of this land,” Omar stated, refuting Trump’s authority to unilaterally terminate TPS.
Trump’s comments came after the Manhattan Institute released a controversial report alleging that funds from Minnesota state programs have been funneled to Al-Shabaab, a Somali-based Islamist insurgent group. This report, backed by unnamed sources, claims that money laundering operations linked to state programs have contributed to terrorism. Omar dismissed these allegations as unsubstantiated, stating, “That language is dangerous; it puts the lives of Somalis in jeopardy.”
The rally drew attention from local leaders, including Sen. Zaynab Mohamed and St. Paul Mayor-elect Kaohly Her, who condemned Trump’s rhetoric as scapegoating. Mohamed articulated the emotional toll of such claims, noting, “My family came as refugees, fleeing a home we could no longer stay in.”
In stark contrast, some Minnesota Republicans, including Speaker of the House Lisa Demuth, expressed support for Trump’s remarks. Demuth stated, “Far too many individuals who were welcomed into this country have abused the trust and support that was extended to them.” This statement underscores a growing divide over how to address allegations of fraud and crime within immigrant communities.
In a formal letter, Republican senators Jordan Rasmusson and Paul Utke requested an investigation into the claims of money laundering, citing potential national security implications. They asserted that federal authorities are better equipped to address these issues, which they believe extend beyond Minnesota’s borders.
Civil rights attorney Alec Shaw clarified that TPS cannot be revoked without action from the Secretary of Homeland Security. “While this is cause for concern, it’s not a cause for panic,” he stated, affirming that the TPS status for Somali Minnesotans remains intact for now.
Minnesota’s Attorney General Keith Ellison echoed this sentiment, indicating that legal options are being explored to protect TPS holders. Ellison noted that previous efforts to cancel TPS during Trump’s first term faced successful litigation and promised vigilance against similar attempts.
Community leaders expressed fear over the potential for violence stemming from Trump’s inflammatory remarks. Yusuf Abdulle, executive director of the Islamic Association of North America, recounted how past hate speech led to violence in the community. “We’ve had enough of politically motivated violence,” he declared, reflecting the urgent concern among Minnesota’s Somali population.
As this situation develops, the implications for Somali Minnesotans and the broader immigrant community remain significant. Leaders continue to rally support, stressing the need for unity against divisive narratives.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, with rallies and legal actions expected in the coming days.
