President Donald Trump on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Somali immigrants, saying they should not be in the United States and repeating criticism of Somali-American Rep. Ilhan Omar.
Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Mr Trump said, verbatim, “I don’t want them in our country.” He also criticised what he called heavy use of U.S. social benefits by some Somalis and urged that people “go back to where they came from and fix it,” comments that touched off fresh alarm in Somali communities, especially in Minnesota.
The remarks came as U.S. immigration officials prepare enforcement actions in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, home to the nation’s largest Somali community.
Reports say special teams may carry out targeted operations to arrest people with final removal orders. Officials have framed the moves as part of broader efforts to enforce immigration laws.
Rep. Ilhan Omar, who was born in Somalia, replied on social media. She wrote, verbatim, “His obsession with me is creepy. I hope he gets the help he desperately needs.”
Her office and many Minnesota leaders condemned the president’s language as hurtful and divisive.
Civil-rights groups warned the comments risked stoking bias and racial profiling. Legal experts said any enforcement must respect due process and the rights of people facing removal.
Local officials urged calm and said they would protect residents’ civil rights while cooperating where required by law.
It remains to be seen whether the administration carries out large enforcement raids, as statements like these have inspired in the past, and how state and local leaders respond to protect community safety and rights.
