DOJO — Minnesota’s Somali community, home to the largest Somali American population in the US, is under heightened federal scrutiny after President Donald Trump ramped up immigration actions and political attacks targeting Somali residents and citizens. The moves have drawn sharp criticism from community leaders, lawmakers, and civil rights groups.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2024 American Community Survey, about 260,000 Somalis live in the U.S., with roughly 84,000 in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area. Most are American citizens, and nearly 58% of Minnesota’s Somali population was born in the U.S. Among the foreign-born, 87% are naturalized, and almost half arrived in 2010 or later, fleeing the long civil war in Somalia.
Minnesota: A Center for Somali Life in America
The state’s Somali population has grown over decades, drawn by refugee programs, social services, and economic opportunities. Somali Americans in Minnesota have established businesses, served in government, and contributed to the local economy.
Yet Trump has increasingly criticized the community. Recently, he claimed Somalis “have caused a lot of trouble” and suggested federal enforcement should be expanded. The comments came after conservative media linked government program fraud in Minnesota to al-Shabab, the Somali militant group connected to al-Qaida. Federal prosecutors, however, have found no evidence connecting Somali defendants in fraud cases to terrorism.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the agency is investigating, but no charges have been filed related to terrorism funding.
Temporary Protected Status Ends, Green Cards Reexamined
Trump has moved to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali residents in Minnesota. According to a congressional report, only 705 people nationwide were covered under TPS. Days later, Trump ordered a review of all green cards from Somalia and 18 other countries.
On Truth Social, he also made incendiary remarks about Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Rep. Ilhan Omar, claiming Somali refugees were “completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota.” Walz responded simply: “Release the MRI results.”
Trump further announced plans to suspend immigration from all “Third World Countries”, though he did not specify which nations would be affected or how the suspension would be enforced.
Community Leaders Push Back
Minnesota’s Somali community and advocacy groups denounced the president’s comments and policies. The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations urged politicians to “temper their language” and stop stoking racial and religious tensions.
Somali Americans in Minnesota argue they are being unfairly targeted. Many have long contributed to the state’s economy, civic life, and public services, making the recent political attacks especially contentious.
The immigration crackdown comes amid other security concerns cited by the administration, including a recent attack by an Afghan national on National Guard members in Washington, D.C.
Looking Ahead
With Minnesota housing the largest Somali American population in the US, leaders warn that Trump’s policies could have broad implications for thousands of Somali families. Legal challenges and advocacy campaigns are expected as the federal government moves forward with TPS terminations and green card reviews.
For now, Minnesota’s Somali community braces for continued uncertainty as political tensions mount.
