Former President Donald Trump sparked outrage after a Pennsylvania rally in Mount Pocono, where he labeled Somalia a “filthy, disgusting” country and criticized Somali immigrants in Minnesota. During his speech, he revived a long-debunked conspiracy theory claiming Congresswoman Ilhan Omar married her brother to gain U.S. citizenship. He also mocked Omar’s name and attire, prompting chants of “send her back” from the crowd.
Omar, representing Minnesota’s 5th district, responded on X, calling Trump’s fixation “beyond weird” and labeling him a “national embarrassment.” She criticized his reliance on bigoted rhetoric, arguing it substitutes for substantive economic policies.
Trump’s comments come amid increased scrutiny of Somali immigrants in Minnesota, with reports suggesting ICE may target residents with final deportation orders. In recent weeks, Trump also accused Somali refugees of committing fraud and “roving the streets looking for prey,” intensifying tensions.
Omar, who has previously been the victim of racist harassment and violent threats, condemned the president’s remarks, highlighting the ongoing pattern of personal attacks and racialized conspiracy theories aimed at her. The controversy underscores the persistent clashes between Trump and Omar during his second presidency.
