State Department Freezes Immigration from Somalia

The State Department is temporarily halting immigration from Somalia following an internal review that indicated a significant number of Somali immigrants rely on welfare once they arrive in the U.S.

This suspension is set to last while the department reassesses its immigration policies, with the goal of “preventing the entry of foreign nationals who are a public liability,” as stated by the State Department.

Starting January 21st, the freeze will affect entry from about 75 countries, including Somalia.

Assistant Principal Spokesperson Tommy Piggott remarked that “under President Trump, we will not allow foreigners to exploit the American immigration system and the generosity of the American people.” He expressed concerns about Somali immigrants who have entered the United States and accessed welfare benefits at high costs to taxpayers.

“The Trump administration is using the State Department’s authority to address abuses within our immigration system,” he added.

In Minnesota, the Somali community has faced scrutiny following allegations that some members engaged in fraudulent schemes to misappropriate taxpayer money.

There are an estimated 80,000 Somalis in Minnesota, primarily foreign-born, with most residing in the Minneapolis area.

The Department of Homeland Security recently announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Somalis living in the U.S. In addition, the DHS is deploying more police to the Minneapolis area to target illegal immigration. Many individuals arrested include those with serious crimes, like child rapists and murderers.

“When we say temporary, we mean temporary,” Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem asserted. “Somalia’s national situation has improved to the extent that it no longer qualifies for temporary protected status.”