U.S. Senator Tina Smith’s Statement on President Trump’s Targeting of Somalis in Twin Cities

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) released the following statement in response toreportingthat President Trump is directing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to launch a raid targeting the Somali community in the Twin Cities:
“When Donald Trump calls all Somalis ‘garbage’, he’s talking about the people who run your favorite deli in Minneapolis, the nurse who takes care of you at the hospital, the home health aide looking after your aging parent, the military veteran who served this country, your local and federal elected leaders, and hardworking patriotic American taxpayers who came to this country legally.
“I know many of our Somali friends and neighbors are fearful as the Trump Administration threatens ICE raids specifically targeting them in the Twin Cities. I urge you to understand your rights, have your documents with you, and seek out help from an immigration attorney if you have specific questions. The Minneapolis Police Department is urging residents to call 911 if you see suspicious activity and masked agents raiding homes to confirm the activity is being conducted by real federal agents.”