WASHINGTON, D.C. — A heated political clash erupted Tuesday after President Donald Trump used a Cabinet meeting to deliver sharp criticism of Somali immigrants, declaring he “doesn’t want them in the United States.”

The comments — which immediately triggered backlash from civil rights groups, immigration advocates, and Minnesota’s large Somali community — drew a swift and forceful response from Rep. Ilhan Omar, one of Congress’s most outspoken progressive voices and the first Somali-American elected to the U.S. House.

Speaking within hours of Trump’s remarks, Omar accused the president of a disturbing fixation:

“Trump’s obsession with me and the Somali community is creepy and unhealthy,” she said.
“He continues to target us to distract from his own failures.”

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🇺🇸 TRUMP’S COMMENTS IGNITE FRESH CONTROVERSY

During the televised Cabinet meeting, Trump claimed Somali immigrants were “bad for the country,” insisting he would rather they “stay where they came from.” Sources in the room said the president appeared frustrated as he linked Somali communities to crime — a claim repeatedly disputed by data.

The remarks instantly revived long-running tensions between Trump and Minnesota’s Somali population, one of the largest in the U.S.

Advocacy groups condemned the statement as inflammatory, dangerous, and bordering on xenophobia.

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🗣️ OMAR: “HE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT US”

Rep. Omar wasted no time responding.

At a press avail in Minneapolis, she accused Trump of using immigrant communities as political props.

“Every time he’s in trouble, he goes back to attacking immigrants — especially Somalis,” she said.
“It’s predictable. It’s desperate. And frankly, it’s pathetic.”

Omar also emphasized that the Somali-American community contributes significantly to Minnesota’s economy, small-business growth, and workforce.

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🌍 SOMALI COMMUNITY LEADERS REACT

Community leaders across Minneapolis and St. Paul described Trump’s comments as:

• “Demeaning”
• “Reckless”
• “Designed to divide Americans”

Several organizations urged national lawmakers to condemn rhetoric that “puts real lives at risk,” noting a rise in harassment incidents whenever heated anti-immigrant statements go viral.

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🧭 POLITICAL RAMIFICATIONS ALREADY EMERGING

Analysts say Trump’s remarks could have major implications as campaigns continue to court immigrant-heavy districts, particularly in Minnesota, Michigan, and Ohio.

Some Republicans privately expressed concern that the president’s comments may energize Democratic turnout, especially among minority voters.

Meanwhile, Omar predicted Trump’s strategy would backfire:

“Minnesotans know who we are. They know our values. And they won’t be bullied by a man who thrives on fear.”

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⚡ A CONFLICT LONG IN THE MAKING

The feud between Trump and Omar is nothing new:

• Trump has repeatedly singled her out at rallies,
• Omar has frequently called out the president’s rhetoric as racist,
• Their public clashes have become symbolic of America’s deep political divides.

Tuesday’s exchange appears to be the latest — and perhaps strongest — escalation yet.

🔥 “CREEPY AND UNHEALTHY”: Ilhan Omar Fires Back After Trump Says He Doesn’t Want Somali Immigrants in the U.S.