Controversy Surrounds Somali Community in Minnesota Following Trump's Remarks

Fri Dec 05 2025 06:10:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

President Trump's recent comments about the Somali community in Minnesota have sparked renewed debate about immigration, fraud allegations, and community contributions.

Minnesota's Somali community is under scrutiny following President Trump's disparaging remarks. With an estimated 260,000 Somalis in the U.S., the Minneapolis area houses the largest population. Trump has linked the community to fraud cases and security concerns, prompting pushback from local leaders and community advocates. Critics argue that a few instances of fraud should not overshadow the contributions made by the Somali community. As tensions rise, the future of Somali immigration in Minnesota remains uncertain amidst allegations and political maneuvering ahead of upcoming elections.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Recent statements by President Donald Trump and top administration officials disparaging Minnesota’s large Somali community have focused renewed attention on the immigrants from the war-torn east African country and their descendants.

Trump on Tuesday stated he did not want Somalis in the U.S. because 'they contribute nothing.' The president's comments came on the heels of plans for a targeted immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, primarily focused on unlawful Somali immigrants.

Largest Somali American Population in the US

An estimated 260,000 Somalis reside in the U.S., according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. The Minneapolis-St. Paul area is home to around 84,000 Somali residents, most of whom are American citizens. Almost 58% of the Somalis in Minnesota were born in the U.S. Additionally, 87% of foreign-born Somalis are naturalized citizens. Many fled the long civil war in Somalia, seeking refuge in Minnesota's supportive social programs.

Trump Targets the Community

Trump has intensified criticism of the Somali community, claiming they have caused significant issues in the country. He and other officials ramped up their rhetoric following claims that funds from Minnesota's public programs were misused, potentially supporting the militant group al-Shabab, with no solid evidence to substantiate these accusations.

Recently, Trump announced plans to terminate Temporary Protected Status for Somali migrants, which offers protection against deportation, affecting around 705 individuals nationally.

Fraud Allegations Lead to Pushback

Local leaders and community members, including Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have defended the Somali community against broad accusations of fraud linked to cases like the 'Feeding Our Future' scandal, which involved alleged fraudulent claims in a program designed to feed children during the pandemic. Most defendants were Somalis, but the ringleader was not.

Prosecutors have estimated recent fraud cases in Minnesota resulted in thefts of up to $300 million, attracting political scrutiny as elections loom, with opponents blaming state leadership for the fallout.

Earlier Terrorism Cases Still Echo

Attempts to recruit young Somali men for militant groups have historical roots, beginning with cases in 2007. While most cases have been resolved, ongoing investigations highlight continued concerns over radicalization.

Somalis Become a Force in Politics

Politically, Somali Americans have made significant inroads, most notably with Rep. Ilhan Omar, who represents Minneapolis and has been a frequent target of Trump. Several Somali Americans serve in various levels of government, reflecting their growing influence in Minnesota's political landscape.