Representative Ilhan Omar from Minnesota reported that a guest at President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address was removed by Capitol Police and arrested on Tuesday evening.
She referred to “reports” claiming that software engineer Aliya Rahman faced “aggressive treatment” during her removal from the chamber while Trump was speaking. Omar had invited Rahman after a confrontation with federal officials in Minnesota related to Operation Metro Surge earlier this year.
“During the President’s speech, my guest, Aliya Rahman, stood quietly in the gallery, joined by others. Unfortunately, she was forcibly removed and ultimately charged with ‘misconduct’ despite having been warned about her shoulder injury,” Omar explained in a statement.
She added, “The report indicated she was treated roughly until an intervention ensured she received proper care. Following that, she was taken to George Washington University Hospital and then processed at the U.S. Capitol Police Headquarters.”
“This type of harsh response to a peaceful guest is quite concerning. It raises questions about our democracy. We’re calling for an explanation regarding the reasons behind this arrest,” she emphasized.
Fox News attempted to reach Capitol Police for comment but had not received a prompt reply.
Omar might face sanctions involving up to six months of incarceration and a fine reaching $500 as part of the charges associated with Rahman.
In an interview, Rahman stated, “At the State of the Union, you can either sit or stand. I opted to stand, and then I was arrested.”
The situation unfolded following Trump sending Tom Homan, the border czar, to Minneapolis after serious incidents involving anti-ICE protesters and federal law enforcement last month.
Homan announced earlier this month that Operation Metro Surge was ending, citing new collaborations with local police as a reason. “Because of our efforts here, Minnesota is no longer a refuge for criminals,” he declared on February 12.
He confirmed that a small team would remain in Minnesota for a transitional period to supervise funding adjustments and that federal agents would still be active in conducting criminal investigations against those causing disruptions.
