Trump's derogatory comments about Somalians denounced as racism by Minnesota officials

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump criticized Somali immigrants in Minnesota, describing them as garbage and accusing them of committing fraud. Local officials quickly condemned the statements as racist and un-American.

Trump made the remarks at the conclusion of a Cabinet meeting on December 2, following reports that several Somali immigrants were charged with allegedly defrauding Minnesota programs, including COVID-19 relief, by approximately $1 billion.

Somalians ripped off that state for billions of dollars, Trump said. They contribute nothing.

During the meeting in the White House Cabinet Room, Trump was joined by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

Criticism of Minnesota Leaders

Trump also attacked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, calling him grossly incompetent. He singled out U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar, who was born in Somalia and has served in Congress since 2019, accusing her of undermining the Constitution and holding negative views toward various groups, including Jewish people.

I think shes an incompetent person. Shes a real terrible person, Trump said. Shes garbage.

Trumps comments coincided with increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Minneapolis and St. Paul. I dont want them in my country, he added. Their country is no good for a reason. Their country stinks.

Responses from Officials

Representative Omar called Trumps focus on her creepy on social media, stating, His obsession with me is creepy. I hope he gets the help he desperately needs.

Minnesota officials expressed support for Somali immigrants. Omar posted on social media on November 24, To our Somali communities here in Minnesota and across the country: we see you and we stand with you. None of Trump's lawless threats will ever change that you make our state and country great.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter emphasized immigrants contributions, writing, Our Somali community is no exception. When the President responds with division and racism, its un-American and against everything we stand for.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey echoed the sentiment, saying, They are our neighbors, our friends, and our family and they are welcome in our city. Nothing Donald Trump does will ever change that.

Author: Benjamin Carter