Ilhan Omar Discusses Trump’s Attacks on Somali-Americans and Their Broader Political Context
Donald Trump recently revived a conspiracy theory claiming that Ilhan Omar married her brother to obtain US citizenship and mocked her hijab during a speech in Pennsylvania. Omar has spoken about the personal impact of being targeted as a Black immigrant Democrat, noting that these attacks have intensified in recent days.
Trump's criticisms of Somali-Americans are linked to fraud cases involving individuals of Somali origin in Minnesota, which has provided a data-backed backdrop for his rhetoric. According to David Smith, the attacks are driven by immigration rhetoric aimed at appealing to Trump’s base, who have been influenced by his unpopularity and struggles concerning affordability.
This discussion is part of The Guardian's Today in Focus podcast featuring Annie Kelly and David Smith, which examines why Somali-Americans have become targets in US political discourse.
