President Donald Trump on Thursday made a pointed remark about Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar during a press briefing in the Oval Office. Referring to the Minnesota congresswoman’s recent criticism of the late Charlie Kirk, the Turning Point USA founder who was tragically assassinated on September 10, Trump said he suggested to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud that the lawmaker be “taken back” to her home country. According to Trump, the Somali leader declined, remarking he did not want her. Trump added that even he did not want her back, eliciting laughter from White House officials, including Vice President JD Vance and FBI Director Kash Patel.
Ilhan Omar’s controversial comments on Charlie Kirk
The Minnesota congresswoman drew widespread backlash after criticizing the public outpouring of admiration for Kirk following his death. Speaking to progressive media outlet Zeteo, Omar dismissed claims that Kirk merely sought civil debate and instead called out supporters for “normalizing” his work. She later labeled Kirk a “reprehensible human being” and a “stochastic terrorist,” doubling down on her comments in an appearance on CNN. Omar’s remarks ignited outrage among conservatives, with some lawmakers and public figures calling for censure or other consequences.South Carolina Republican Rep. Nancy Mace attempted to censure Omar for “celebrating murder,” but the measure narrowly failed when four House Republicans joined Democrats in opposing it. Conservative figures, including legendary golfer Phil Mickelson, publicly condemned Omar’s statements, suggesting she be “sent back” to Somalia. Mickelson’s comments echoed Trump’s earlier quip, reinforcing the controversy surrounding the congresswoman’s rhetoric and raising questions about political decorum and accountability.
Background on Charlie Kirk’s assassination
Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot at an outdoor speaking event at Utah Valley University. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, who reportedly held leftist ideologies, was charged with aggravated murder. Kirk’s death sent shockwaves through the conservative community and prompted discussions on political polarization and the safety of public figures. Omar’s public remarks, critical of the late activist, further intensified the national debate over free speech, accountability, and political discourse.