Trump Thanksgiving post targets Minnesota Somalis
Late Thanksgiving night, President Donald Trump posted a message disparaging Somali refugees in Minnesota and using a slur to describe Gov. Tim Walz, while vowing sweeping immigration restrictions; the next day, his administration announced it is halting all asylum decisions. Walz replied on social media, “Release the MRI results,” as the rhetoric and policy move raised immediate concerns for Twin Cities immigrant communities.
📌 Key Facts
- Trump’s post was shared just before 10:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving (Nov. 27, 2025)
- The administration announced a halt to all asylum decisions the following day
- The message singled out Somali refugees in Minnesota and insulted Gov. Tim Walz and Rep. Ilhan Omar
📊 Relevant Data
Minnesota has the largest Somali population in the United States, with approximately 86,610 Somali Americans residing in the state.
Is Minnesota home to the largest number of Somali Americans in the country? — MinnPost
About 36.4% of Somalis in Minnesota live below the poverty line, compared to 12% for Minnesotans overall.
Somali population - Cultural communities — Minnesota Compass
The Somali community in Minnesota experiences a poverty rate of 58%, with 40% of the community unemployed or not in the workforce.
Many Somali refugees arrived in Minnesota with limited education, contributing to low workforce participation rates and high poverty.
Contributions change over time — Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
Somali people in Minnesota often experience race or ethnicity discrimination, which may impact housing and employment.
Somali - Culture Care Connection — Culture Care Connection
Minnesota has the largest population of Somali refugees, with the majority depending on public insurance for dental care.
In 2009, seven Minneapolis-area Somali men were killed over a 10-month period by fellow Somalis belonging to gangs.
Minneapolis struggles with Somali gangs — NBC News
The Somali community in Minnesota faces issues of violent crime, with community groups working to divert youth from the criminal justice system.
Community groups fight to divert Somali-American youth away from criminal justice system — Black News and Views