State Senator Jim Abeler of Minnesota has publicly condemned remarks made by former President Donald Trump regarding the Somali community. During a Cabinet meeting on March 5, 2024, Trump referred to Somali immigrants as “garbage,” prompting Abeler to respond with a letter praising the contributions of Somali-Americans.
In his letter, Abeler conveyed his surprise at Trump’s comments, emphasizing the positive role that many Somali immigrants play in American society. He stated, “The Somalis I know, and I know many, are nothing of the sort. They are businesspeople, drivers, hourly workers supporting their families, investors, nurses, students, and clerics – just like how my ancestors turned out.”
Trump’s remarks were made in the context of a broader discussion about a fraud scandal in Minnesota. Recently, 78 individuals, mostly Somali asylum-seekers, were indicted for allegedly defrauding state social service programs out of more than $1 billion. In his comments, Trump suggested that the country risks accepting people he described as “garbage,” indicating a lack of value in their contributions.
Abeler highlighted the resilience of the Somali community, noting that many fled civil war in their homeland and have since integrated into American society. “Coming here, they have borne children, started companies, worked hard, and rebuilt their lives,” he wrote. He pointed out that most Somali immigrants are now citizens and almost all are in the country legally.
The senator extended an invitation to Trump, suggesting that he meet with Somali community members in Minnesota. “Please join me and several dozen Somali men and women for an hour or two to see for yourself how fortunate we are to have them in our midst,” Abeler wrote. He concluded with a plea for the president to refrain from derogatory language, stating, “No man, woman or child is more or less in the eyes of our Lord God Most High, and none of them are trash.”
Abeler’s sentiments were echoed by Tim Walz, the Democratic Governor of Minnesota, who also denounced Trump’s comments. Walz stated that such remarks undermine the contributions of the Somali community to the state. His response reinforces a growing concern among political leaders about the impact of inflammatory language on community relations.
As discussions surrounding the Somali community continue, the situation remains fluid, with further developments expected as responses from various stakeholders unfold. The ongoing dialogue underscores the complexities of immigration and integration in the United States, particularly within communities that have faced scrutiny in the wake of criminal allegations.
