Trump Faces Backlash Over Campaign Remarks Calling Somali Immigrants “Garbage”

At a Cabinet meeting on December 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald J. Trump called Somali immigrants 'garbage'. This made civil rights groups and Somali-American leaders very angry right away.

Trump then said that Somali immigrants 'don't add anything,' accused some of taking advantage of social services and help, and said that their home country 'stinks.' He also said that more immigrants from Somalia and other countries like it could 'send the U.S. in the wrong direction.'

He also called Ilhan Omar, a well-known Somali American, and 'her friends' 'garbage.'

These comments come at a time when it looks like federal officials are getting ready for a big immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, which has one of the largest Somali communities in the US. A lot of people are worried that the language is making it easier for targeted raids to happen, which will hurt both illegal immigrants and people who follow the law.

Leaders in the community and groups that work for civil rights have spoken out against what was said. They say that putting a few people who are accused of doing something wrong with a whole ethnic group makes people more xenophobic, breaks down trust, and puts immigrant communities in danger.

Some Somali-Americans say the backlash has already begun as things change in Somali areas. People are always carrying ID, and many are too scared to go out. Businesses are getting fewer customers.

At least one Somali-American who was invited and used to support Trump said they were very upset by what he said and felt like they had been let down.

Somalia's people and leaders also spoke out on a global scale. Some people spoke out against the insults, while others told everyone to stay calm because they were worried about how it would affect diplomacy.

A lot of political experts think this is more than just a criticism of the U.S. They think it's part of a bigger plan to get a certain group of voters to support the U.S. elections by using language that targets immigrants.

The episode brings up important issues about the line between political speech, racism, and the responsibilities of leaders. It also raises the question of whether such inflammatory language could have long-term effects on civil rights and social cohesion in the US.

More and more fallout as Somali communities get ready for the worst

For many Somali Americans, Trump’s remarks felt like a direct attack on families who have long lived and worked in the United States. Community leaders say anxiety in Minnesota’s Somali neighborhoods has grown sharply, with residents increasingly concerned about their safety and future.

Advocates caution that such rhetoric may fuel public hostility and shape upcoming policy decisions. With reports of possible federal enforcement actions, community groups are rushing to offer legal guidance and support as fear continues to spread.