James Woods Slams 'Somali Parasite' Ilhan Omar, 'Insufferable Scum' Democrats at Trump's SOTU

Actor James Woods criticized Rep. Ilhan Omar and other Democrats for heckling and protesting during President Trump's State of the Union address.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Actor James Woods took aim at Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and other Democrats for their behavior during President Donald Trump's first State of the Union address. Woods called Omar a "Somali parasite" and described Democrats as "insufferable scum" for heckling and protesting during the speech, particularly when Trump honored the parents of a slain Ukrainian refugee. Despite the Democrat reactions, instant polls showed that Trump's speech was well-received by CNN viewers.

Why it matters

The reactions from Omar, Tlaib, and other Democrats during Trump's State of the Union address highlight the ongoing partisan divide and tensions in US politics. Woods' strong language reflects the heated rhetoric and personal attacks that have become commonplace in political discourse.

The details

During Trump's speech, he honored the grieving parents of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who was murdered in North Carolina by a repeat offender released on no-cash bail. While the audience gave a standing ovation, Democrats including Omar and Tlaib remained seated. Woods later tweeted that the Democrats were "insufferable scum" for their reactions. Despite the protests, instant polls showed that Trump's speech was well-received by CNN viewers, with 64% saying they agreed he is moving the country in the right direction.

  • President Trump delivered his first State of the Union address on Tuesday night.

The players

James Woods

An American actor known for his outspoken conservative political views on social media.

Ilhan Omar

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Minnesota's 5th congressional district, who has been a frequent target of criticism from conservatives.

Rashida Tlaib

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Michigan's 13th congressional district, who was also present at the State of the Union and protested during the speech.

Iryna Zarutska

A 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who was brutally murdered in North Carolina by a repeat offender released on no-cash bail.

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, who delivered the State of the Union address.

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What they’re saying

“Somali parasite Omar and the terrorist loving miserable pug face chick making fools of themselves, as usual.”

— James Woods, Actor (X)

“Finally it has to be said. They are insufferable scum.”

— James Woods, Actor (X)

“How do you not stand? How do you not stand?”

— Donald Trump, President (Breitbart)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the deep partisan divide and heated rhetoric that has become commonplace in US politics, with prominent figures on both sides engaging in personal attacks and failing to find common ground. It also raises questions about the appropriate behavior and decorum expected from elected officials during major national addresses.