Former President Donald Trump has ignited a fresh wave of outrage with his derogatory and racially charged remarks targeting Somali immigrants in the United States.
During a cabinet meeting held on Tuesday, Trump launched an attack on the Somali community, predominantly residing in the state of Minnesota, demanding their immediate expulsion from the country.
Community leaders and local authorities have condemned the Republican's comments as an unprecedented xenophobic assault.
Trump's Controversial Remarks
The tirade began with Trump criticizing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz for alleged negligence in a social services fraud case involving Somali immigrants. His rhetoric quickly escalated to a sweeping condemnation of the entire community.
"I've heard they've defrauded billions in that state. They contribute nothing. I'll be honest with you, some might say this isn't politically correct. I don't care. I don't want them in our country," Trump declared.
He further added, "They're not people who work hard, people who say 'let's make this place great.' All they do is complain. They come from hell and complain we're not paradise. We don't want them here. They should go back."
Escalating Hostility
Trump went on to disparage the African nation itself: "Their country stinks. I don't want them in the United States." He continued, "Somalia is barely a country. They have nothing. Just killing each other. No structure."
Blaming Somali immigrants for allegedly destroying America, Trump insisted they should be "removed as soon as possible."
"We can go one way or another, and we're heading the wrong way if we keep accepting trash into our country," he proclaimed, prompting immediate backlash both domestically and abroad.
International Reaction
In response, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre suggested ignoring the comments: "Trump has insulted many countries, including Nigeria and South Africa. Some things aren't worth commenting on; we just let them pass."
More forcefully, Somali Foreign Minister Ali Omar labeled Trump's words as "false" and "an insult to our resilience and sacrifice." He urged unity and dignity among Somalis.
Targeting Ilhan Omar
Trump's diatribe also personally targeted Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, a Somali-born representative from Minnesota. He called her "garbage," "incompetent," and "really bad" for her criticisms of the Constitution.
Omar responded on her official X account, expressing concern over Trump's obsession with her and hoped he would seek much-needed help.
Immigration Crackdown in Minnesota
Concurrently, government sources confirmed Trump's administration is planning a large-scale immigration operation in Minnesota, deploying over 100 ICE agents targeting Somali immigrants without legal status.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed—without evidence—that "half of the immigrants living in Minnesota have filed fraudulent visa applications." She blamed Governor Walz for "illegally bringing" people who "should never have been in this country."
Local authorities rejected these assertions. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey vowed to continue defending residents, while Governor Walz urged against indiscriminate attacks on immigrants, noting that this was not a real solution.
Community Response
The emotional impact on Somali citizens has been profound. Minneapolis entrepreneur and educational leader Hamse Warfe declared, "I am not garbage." Warfe, who arrived from Somalia as a child, successfully founded several businesses and now leads a national educational organization.
"Words matter a lot, especially when it's the president of the United States speaking," he emphasized.
The Minnesota Somali community—the largest in the country with about 84,000 residents—has long been a model of integration, with members serving as city councilors, state legislators, and community leaders. Yet, Trump's narrative portrays them as a "parasitic" group that "doesn't contribute."
Hardening Immigration Agenda
Trump's statements align with a further tightening of his immigration agenda. He recently halted all immigration procedures, including permanent residency and naturalization applications, for citizens from 19 countries, Somalia included.
"Citizenship is a privilege, not a right," Trump asserted.
Immigration lawyers reported abrupt cancellations of interviews and naturalization ceremonies, with some applicants learning of the suspension only upon arriving at USCIS offices, receiving no explanation.
Trump's comments on Somali immigrants not only dehumanize thousands who have enriched America's social and economic fabric but dangerously fuel xenophobic sentiments.
Understanding the Impact of Trump's Remarks on Somali Immigrants
What did Trump say about Somali immigrants?
Trump referred to Somali immigrants as "trash" and demanded their immediate expulsion from the United States, claiming they contribute nothing and are involved in fraud.
How did the Somali community respond to Trump's comments?
The Somali community, including leaders and residents, strongly condemned Trump's statements, emphasizing their contributions to society and the harmful impact of his words.
What is the significance of Minnesota for Somali immigrants?
Minnesota hosts the largest Somali community in the United States, with about 84,000 residents, many of whom have successfully integrated and contributed to local communities.
What actions are being taken by the Trump administration in response to Somali immigrants?
The Trump administration is planning a large-scale immigration crackdown in Minnesota, targeting Somali immigrants without legal status, and has suspended immigration processes for citizens of 19 countries, including Somalia.