President Donald Trump has stirred renewed backlash after asserting that Somali immigrants are not welcome in the United States and should “go back” to rebuild their country, remarks that critics have condemned as inflammatory and divisive.
Eko Hot News reports that speaking during a Cabinet meeting, Trump accused Somali immigrants of relying excessively on the U.S. social support system and contributing “nothing,” a claim swiftly dismissed by community leaders and public officials as false, inflammatory, and not good. His remarks come amid heightened national tension following the administration’s halt on all asylum decisions after a shooting involving a suspect originally from Afghanistan incident Trump has since used to question wider immigration policies affecting other nationalities.
In recent days, Trump has intensified attacks on the Somali-American community, particularly in Minnesota, home to the largest Somali population in the U.S. His statements referenced unproven allegations pushed by conservative activist Christopher Rufo, linking Minnesota state fraud cases to extremist groups’ claims that have drawn strong rebuttals from authorities and experts.
The president also vowed to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis, a decision legal analysts say may face serious constitutional challenges and would affect only a small percentage of Somali residents.
Trump’s remarks extended to Rep. Ilhan Omar, whom he called “garbage,” prompting sharp backlash from the congresswoman and elected officials nationwide. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey responded forcefully, praising Somali immigrants for revitalising neighbourhoods, creating businesses, and enriching the city’s cultural and economic landscape.
Critics argue Trump’s comments are part of a long-running pattern of targeting immigrant communities and stoking fear for political gain. Advocacy groups warn that such rhetoric threatens public safety, fuels discrimination, and undermines the dignity of thousands of law-abiding Somali-Americans who have been part of the U.S. fabric for decades.
