Rep. Ilhan Omar Sparks Outrage Over Controversial Tweet About President Trump

The tweet was interpreted by many as a veiled call for the president's execution, escalating tensions over Minnesota fraud investigations.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democratic congresswoman from Minnesota, sparked outrage among conservatives after posting a tweet that many interpreted as a veiled call for President Trump's execution. The tweet came in response to Trump's comments about Somali immigrant involvement in a $9 billion fraud crisis in Minnesota, where Omar's district is located. Conservative media outlets and commentators quickly condemned the post as a direct threat requiring federal investigation, while Omar has not retracted the statement.

Why it matters

The incident reveals stark partisan divides in interpreting political speech, with conservatives viewing Omar's tweet as dangerous incitement that violates standards for elected officials, while others dismissed it as mere political commentary. The controversy strengthens Trump's narrative about radical elements in Congress while energizing his base around immigration enforcement and accountability for members who attack constitutional norms.

The details

In her tweet, Omar referred to Trump as the 'leader of the Ped*phile Protection Party' and declared, 'At least in Somalia they execute ped*philes, not elect them.' This came after Trump appeared on Fox Business and discussed Somali immigrant involvement in Minnesota's $9 billion fraud crisis, referring to Omar as a 'fake congresswoman'. Conservative media outlets and commentators rapidly amplified Omar's tweet, characterizing it as a direct threat that requires federal investigation. House conservatives are pushing for formal censure or expulsion proceedings, arguing that suggesting the execution of a sitting president crosses constitutional lines.

  • On February 10, President Trump appeared on Fox Business and discussed Somali immigrant involvement in Minnesota's $9 billion fraud crisis.
  • On February 11, Rep. Ilhan Omar posted the controversial tweet in response to Trump's comments.

The players

Ilhan Omar

A Democratic congresswoman representing Minnesota's 5th district, which contains a large Somali population. She has been a vocal defender of her constituents against what she characterizes as discriminatory targeting by the federal government.

President Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, who has escalated immigration enforcement in Minneapolis and clashed with local officials over cooperation with federal authorities.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.