Minneapolis Mayor Praises Somali Migrants

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (D) recently referred to Somali migrants as the “CEOs of the future,” suggesting that criticism they face stems from their ambitious economic contributions and entrepreneurial efforts in the community.

During a Somali Networking Night event, Frey highlighted the significant impact Somali migrants have had on Minneapolis, expressing pride in their presence in the city.

He also criticized the previous Trump administration for targeting the Somali community, saying, “You saw quite directly back in January and February a federal government that was coming after a whole community, and our incredible Somali people. One of the reasons they were coming after you is they saw the kind of economy and entrepreneurship that you’re helping to build.” He emphasized that the leaders of tomorrow will emerge from diverse backgrounds, not conforming to traditional expectations.

Frey stated that Somali migrants are already making strides as effective leaders, saying they are “not just the CEOs and entrepreneurs of tomorrow, but of right now.” He remarked, “You are showing that.”

In January, former President Donald Trump claimed that Somali migrants were costing the U.S. around $19 billion, suggesting he would take measures to stop what he described as “Somali-related fraud corruption” in states like California, Illinois, and Minnesota.

Trump commented, “The Somalians are ripping off our country, to the tune of, looks like $19 billion, but that’s only what they can find,” following allegations made by several citizen journalists regarding potential fraudulent activities involving taxpayer funding in states such as Washington, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

In December 2025, citizen journalist Nick Shirley shared a video showing his visits to childcare centers in Minnesota that purportedly received millions in federal aid, noting a lack of children present at those facilities.