President Donald Trump has sparked controversy with explicit remarks regarding Somali immigrants during a cabinet meeting, stating he does not want them in the United States and suggesting they should return to their country of origin. The comments came alongside revelations of planned immigration enforcement operations targeting Minnesota’s substantial Somali community.
Speaking candidly to reporters, Trump characterized Somalia as lacking structure and described accepting immigrants from such nations as bringing ‘garbage’ into the country. ‘I don’t want them in our country,’ Trump emphasized, dismissing concerns about political correctness. His remarks extended to criticism of Representative Ilhan Omar, the first Somali-American congresswoman, whom he labeled as incompetent and hateful.
The verbal attacks coincided with reports from CBS News that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been directed to conduct targeted operations against undocumented Somali immigrants in the Twin Cities area. While federal officials denied targeting based on race or ethnicity, stating enforcement focuses solely on immigration status, local authorities expressed concerns about potential violations of due process and the sweeping up of American citizens.
Minnesota hosts one of the largest Somali communities globally, with approximately 80,000 residents of Somali descent, most of whom are U.S. citizens. The planned enforcement follows recent tragic events in Washington DC, where a shooting incident involving National Guard members prompted intensified immigration crackdowns. The administration also considers ending Temporary Protected Status for Somali residents, affecting several hundred immigrants.
Local leaders and officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, have condemned both the rhetoric and planned operations, arguing that indiscriminate targeting undermines legitimate law enforcement efforts and community trust.