Trump vs. Omar: Garbage Remarks Ignite Decade-Old Feud
“Send Her Back” to Latest Deportation Calls
President Donald Trump and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) have maintained a heated rivalry since their first major public clashes, marked by personal attacks, immigration disputes, and policy disagreements. Trump’s recent remarks labeling Omar “garbage” and urging Somalis to “go back” revive earlier themes of alleged disloyalty and fraud. This ongoing conflict reflects broader tensions over immigration, patriotism, and representation in Congress.
Origins in Early Controversies
The feud ignited when Omar criticized U.S. support for Israel, stating it was “all about the Benjamins,” prompting accusations of anti-Semitism from Republicans and Trump. Trump demanded her resignation, calling her apology “lame” and unpatriotic, while Omar accused him of lifelong bigotry against minorities. Tensions escalated with Trump’s tweet of a video juxtaposing Omar’s September Eleventh comments with Twin Towers footage, leading to death threats against her and Democratic condemnations of incitement.
“Send Her Back” Chants and Escalation
Trump targeted Omar and three other congresswomen of color with “go back” rhetoric at a North Carolina rally, sparking “send her back” chants from the crowd. He defended the attacks, claiming Omar minimized the September Eleventh attacks and misrepresented her refugee entry, allegations fact-checked as false by outlets like The New York Times. Omar responded by affirming her love for America and vowing to fight Trump’s Muslim ban legacy.
Persistent Immigration Allegations
Trump has repeatedly alleged Omar married her brother for immigration fraud, a claim originating in those early years and resurfacing in his Cabinet meeting rant. Fact-checks confirm she immigrated legally as a child refugee, with no evidence supporting the marriage rumor. His team amplified this on social media, retorting to Omar’s “creepy” label with “Why did you marry your brother?”
Recent Flashpoint
Trump’s latest outburst ties to Minnesota’s Covid fraud scandal involving Somali immigrants, where he linked Omar to community disloyalty and Constitution hatred. He urged Somalis to return home to “fix” it amid ICE deportation plans. Omar dismissed the attacks as obsessive bigotry, echoing her earlier defenses.
Political Ramifications
The exchanges energize Trump’s base on immigration while boosting Omar’s fundraising as a progressive icon. Critics see Trump’s focus as racially charged, targeting one of the first Muslim women in Congress. As president since his recent inauguration, his rhetoric signals stricter policies, while Omar remains a vocal opponent.
