Washington, D.C. (Horn post) U.S. President Donald Trump sparked controversy during his annual address to a joint session of United States Congress, where he made remarks criticizing the Somali community in the United States.
In his speech at Capitol Hill, President Trump focused on what he described as widespread corruption and misuse of public funds in the U.S., announcing that Vice President JD Vance would lead efforts to combat fraud and financial abuse involving taxpayer money.
Trump singled out Minnesota, home to the largest Somali-American population in the country, as an example in his broader criticism of immigration and crime. He alleged that significant financial losses had occurred in the state and used language that critics described as offensive toward the Somali community.
During the address, Rep. Ilhan Omar stood and verbally challenged the president, accusing him of making false statements. She was seated alongside fellow Democratic lawmaker Rashida Tlaib, who also reacted to the remarks. Video footage showed other members of Congress responding emotionally as the president concluded his comments.
Trump urged lawmakers to stand if they agreed that protecting U.S. citizens should take priority over addressing the needs of undocumented immigrants, drawing loud applause and chants of “USA” from Republican members, while Democrats largely remained seated. He criticized Democratic lawmakers, calling on them to “be ashamed,” according to the transcript of the address.
The president further claimed that corruption was concentrated in Democratic-led states, naming Minnesota, California, Massachusetts, and Maine. He stated that investigations led by Vice President Vance had been underway for four months and alleged that uncovering sufficient fraud could rapidly lead to a balanced federal budget.
President Trump has previously made critical remarks about Somali immigrants. In December last year, he accused the community of contributing little to the country and questioned their continued presence in the U.S., comments that drew widespread condemnation from civil rights groups and local officials.
Officials in Minnesota have rejected the president’s claims, warning that aggressive enforcement measures could lead to the wrongful targeting of U.S. citizens, particularly those of Somali origin.
The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul are home to one of the largest Somali diaspora communities in the world, with local leaders estimating the population at nearly 80,000 people, the majority of whom are U.S. citizens.
Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff Reporter
Hargeisa, Somaliland
