On December 31, 2025, President Donald Trump publicly criticized Somali immigrants in Minnesota, labeling them as "scammers" and calling for their deportation back to Somalia. His comments were made in the context of a federal investigation into alleged fraud within social services programs in Minnesota, which has involved some members of the Somali community. However, the Justice Department has indicated that the investigation is primarily focused on individuals not of Somali descent, specifically Aimee Bock, a white individual indicted in connection with a $250 million scheme to defraud a child nutrition program.

Trump's remarks included accusations against Representative Ilhan Omar, a prominent Somali American and one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress, whom he described as an "ungrateful loser" and a "scammer," despite no evidence of wrongdoing on her part. He claimed that a significant portion of the fraud in Minnesota was perpetrated by individuals who entered the U.S. illegally from Somalia, a statement lacking substantiation.

The controversy surrounding these allegations has gained traction in conservative media, particularly following claims made by right-wing influencer Nick Shirley regarding fraud in Minnesota child care centers. In response, the FBI has increased its resources in Minnesota to assist with the investigation. The Health and Human Services Department subsequently announced a freeze on federal child care payments to the state due to these allegations.

Trump's previous criticisms of Omar and the Somali community have included derogatory remarks about Somalia, which he referred to as one of the "worst, and most corrupt, countries on earth." He has also attempted to terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis in Minnesota, a move that would require action from the Secretary of Homeland Security and is subject to legal scrutiny.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Representative Omar have defended the Somali community, with Walz asserting that the issue of fraud is being politicized to undermine social programs that benefit residents. He emphasized the state's commitment to addressing fraud while rejecting the framing of the issue as a broader indictment of the Somali community.

In response to the suspension of TPS, Omar highlighted the contributions of Somali TPS holders to Minnesota, calling for accountability from the administration regarding its actions. The Trump administration has indicated a focus on denaturalization in cases of alleged fraud, although such processes are legally complex and require judicial proceedings.

Overall, the situation reflects ongoing tensions surrounding immigration, social services, and the political discourse surrounding these issues in the United States.