Man Charged in Federal Assault Against Rep. Ilhan Omar

Anthony Kazmierczak allegedly attacked the congresswoman with a syringe during a town hall event in Minneapolis.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Anthony Kazmierczak, 55, has been charged by the Justice Department with assaulting a federal representative after he allegedly charged at Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall event in Minneapolis, squirting her with a syringe filled with apple cider vinegar. Kazmierczak was initially booked into Hennepin County Jail on suspicion of third-degree assault.

Why it matters

The attack on Rep. Omar, a high-profile member of Congress, highlights ongoing tensions in Minneapolis between local officials and the federal government over immigration enforcement. It also raises concerns about the safety and security of elected officials during public events.

The details

According to the federal complaint, Kazmierczak allegedly had a syringe filled with apple cider vinegar when he charged at Omar while she stood at a podium. 'I squirted vinegar,' he allegedly said after being tackled by security. The affidavit also included an image of the syringe used in the attack.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 30, 2026 during a town hall event in Minneapolis.

The players

Anthony Kazmierczak

A 55-year-old man who has been charged by the Justice Department with assaulting a federal representative for allegedly attacking Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall event.

Rep. Ilhan Omar

A U.S. Representative from Minnesota's 5th congressional district who was the target of the alleged assault by Kazmierczak.

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What they’re saying

“'I squirted vinegar,'”

— Anthony Kazmierczak (US District Court, District of Minnesota)

“'She's not resigning. You're splitting Minnesotans apart,'”

— Anthony Kazmierczak (US District Court, District of Minnesota)

“'You know, I've survived more, and I'm definitely going to survive intimidation and whatever these people think that they can throw at me because I'm built that way,'”

— Rep. Ilhan Omar (wbal.com)

What’s next

Kazmierczak is expected to appear in federal court on Wednesday, January 31, 2026 for a hearing on the assault charges.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for heightened security and protection measures for elected officials, especially during public events where they interact directly with constituents. It also highlights the ongoing political tensions and divisions within the Minneapolis community that have led to violence targeting public figures.