Trump Criticizes Somali Immigrants in Minnesota, Experts Dispute Key Claims

President Donald Trump is facing backlash after making inflammatory comments about Somali immigrants in the United States, particularly those living in Minnesota.

🚨 BREAKING: President Trump says NO MORE SOMALIANS in the USA. He's DONE.

"Their country STINKS! They contribute NOTHING." 💯

"I don't want 'em, to be honest. OK? Some say, that's not politically correct. I DON'T CARE. I don't want them in our country. Their country's no good… pic.twitter.com/j5cNG74oKH

— Tironianae 🍊🍊 Z. – Ultra Verbum Vincet (@Tironianae) May 3, 2026

During remarks first reported in December 2025 and resurfacing amid renewed 2026 scrutiny, Trump said he did not want Somali immigrants in the country, stating, “I don’t want them in our country,” and claiming they “contribute to nothing.” He also alleged that Somalis had “ripped off” Minnesota for “billions of dollars,” while suggesting, without evidence provided by the White House, that “like 88%” receive welfare benefits.  

Trump also targeted Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Somali-American congresswoman from Minnesota, as part of his broader criticism of the Somali community. AP reported that Trump urged Somalis to return to Somalia and “fix” their homeland, while also saying he intended to end Temporary Protected Status for Somali nationals.  

The remarks have drawn criticism from local leaders and civil rights advocates, who say Trump’s comments unfairly paint an entire community with broad accusations. Reuters reported that Minneapolis and St. Paul officials defended Somali-Americans, noting that the community has been part of Minnesota’s cultural and economic life for decades.  

Fraud investigations in Minnesota have uncovered real cases involving public programs, including the Feeding Our Future scandal and newer 2026 raids tied to alleged misuse of social-service funds. However, reporting from AP, Reuters, and fact-checkers shows those cases involve specific individuals and organizations — not an entire ethnic community.  

As the controversy continues, Trump’s supporters argue his comments reflect concerns about fraud and immigration enforcement. Critics say the language is dehumanizing, misleading, and risks fueling hostility toward Somali-Americans.