Throughout late 2025, there was significant pushback from Democrats and certain media outlets defending the Somali community amid allegations of extensive fraud occurring in Minnesota.
Federal prosecutors have accused numerous Somalis of misappropriating over $9 billion in taxpayer funds earmarked for social services, notably linked to the nonprofit Feeding Our Future. As more information surfaced regarding these actions, Democrats criticized President Donald Trump and conservatives for unfairly blaming Somalis, expressing their solidarity with the community.
Tim Walz shifts focus to white crime
When questioned about holding Somalis accountable, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, facing considerable criticism over his response to the fraud case, quickly redirected the conversation toward the culpability of white individuals in various crimes.
“Well, if we were to look at law-abiding behavior, a lot of white men would be answerable for their crimes,” Walz remarked during a press briefing on December 12. He added, “I believe the community must educate its members. What we are witnessing now reveals that there are secondary victims here…” He noted that some in the community were unaware of their participation in questionable programs, saying, “It’s essential to urge more accountability across all types of crime, predominantly committed by white men.”
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Walz has faced harsh criticism for allegedly ignoring rules designed to ensure fraud reports are made. As ICE increases its operations targeting Somali nationals in Minnesota, Walz accused Trump of conducting a “public relations stunt” and indiscriminately targeting immigrants.
Minnesota senators tearfully support Somalis
On December 12, Democratic Senator Ann Johnson Stewart tearfully apologized to the Somali community and affirmed her support during an event at a local mosque. “We are deeply saddened by the actions of our government, and we will do everything possible to support you,” she stated, wiping away tears. “You belong here, and we are committed to helping you.” Unfortunately, she added that she had to leave due to other obligations.
Senator Steve Kwodzinski praised the benefits of diversity, asserting that America’s strength lies in its immigrant population. “We aren’t just one homogeneous group; we’re diverse, and that’s what strengthens us,” he said, seemingly at a loss for words as he concluded.
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This show of support came after Trump described Somalia as a “trash” country during a December 8 Cabinet meeting. He also expressed that many Somalis, including Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, show no gratitude to the U.S., despite the opportunities provided to them.
In response to the fraud, the administration has intensified its efforts against the illegal detention and deportation of Somalis in the U.S. White House press secretary Caroline Levitt acknowledged that President Trump backs the denaturalization of Somalis convicted of crimes.
Ilhan Omar claims Trump’s anger reflects bigotry
Representative Ilhan Omar stated that Trump’s animosity toward Somalis stems from his bigotry and Islamophobia. “The president has a history of making xenophobic statements regarding Muslims and black communities. It’s no surprise he lashes out,” she remarked. “It is puzzling, however, how fixated he seems on me and the Somali community.”
Omar condemned Trump’s recent remarks about Somalis, labeling the president’s focus on them as “creepy.” pic.twitter.com/mXLC0N1hve
— New York Post (@nypost) December 4, 2025
As a Somali immigrant, Omar defended her community, highlighting their identity as Americans and their contributions through taxes. She urged others not to blame the Somali community for the actions of a few.
Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed on CBS News that individuals accused of defrauding Feeding Our Future had contributed to Omar’s political campaign. Omar, however, dismissed any suggestion of misconduct.
Democratic Minneapolis mayor welcomes Somalis
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed his support for the Somali community, saying they are integral to the city’s identity, especially in the wake of Trump’s accusations of fraud. “Minneapolis proudly hosts the largest Somali community in the nation. They are our friends and family, and always will be regardless of what Trump says,” Frey affirmed.
“Minneapolis is proud to be home to the largest Somali community in the country… what Donald Trump does will never change that.” pic.twitter.com/3DmvQ4jRov
— Mayor Jacob Frey (@MayorFrey) December 2, 2025
Minnesota lieutenant governor appears on Somali TV
On December 26, Minnesota’s Democratic Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan appeared on Somali TV wearing a hijab, emphasizing that Somalis are “woven into the fabric of Minnesota.” She expressed her honor to represent them.
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Boston mayor highlights Somali contributions
Boston’s Democratic Mayor Michelle Wu refrained from criticizing the crimes linked to some Somali nationals, asserting there is “no room for hatred” in society. “It’s crucial to acknowledge the Somali community’s impact on our city’s achievements and development,” she stated.
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MS NOW analyst discusses Somali scapegoating
Mara Gay, a political analyst on MS Now, stated that Somalis are suffering from far-right anti-immigrant sentiment. She also suggested that reports of wrongdoing should not be seen as unique to politics. “Let’s remember that scandals occur in other states as well,” she noted. “It’s worth mentioning that the Somali community is being used as a scapegoat in ways that serve extremist agendas.”
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Numerous allegations of fraud involving Somalis have surfaced, with many reportedly linked to social program abuse. A YouTube documentary revealed that some Somali daycare centers that received taxpayer funds did not provide services.
CNN anchor voices concerns about the Somali community
Abby Phillip from CNN criticized the negative attention directed at the Somali community, claiming that they are facing threats. “What should you expect when knocking on the doors of daycare facilities? In some cases, children were involved,” she remarked, emphasizing the difficulties faced by the community.
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Politico reporter warns of risk to citizen journalists
Politico’s senior legal reporter Josh Gerstein commented that amateur journalists like Nick Shirley could face dangers through “stand your ground” laws. “Efforts to confront daycare centers may eventually lead to conflicts with self-defense laws,” he suggested.
Minnesota does not have a “stand your ground” policy and requires individuals to retreat before using force.
CNN reports on unease in the Somali community
On December 4, CNN published an article detailing fears within the Somali community in Minnesota, attributing this anxiety to Trump’s administration. It reported that many Somali-owned businesses were seeing declining customer traffic and that some residents were carrying identification in case of run-ins with immigration officials. Local Somalis voiced their condemnation of Trump’s remarks.
In another piece, a writer remarked that Somali immigrants were welcomed in Minnesota after being disdained by Trump.
