Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) faced widespread calls for her removal from Congress after making controversial remarks during an event in Minnesota where she emphasized advocating for Somalia, her birthplace, while serving in the U.S. Congress.

A viral three-minute video, allegedly translated by Somaliland officials, captured Omar’s comments made at an event celebrating the re-election of Said Abdullahi Deni as the President of the Puntland State of Somalia at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis on Saturday.

Omar’s statements coincide with heightened tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia over Somaliland. Ethiopia and Somaliland reached an agreement, not recognized by Somalia, granting Ethiopia access to 12 miles of the coastline in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence.

In her address, Omar referred to the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement and assured the Somali community in Minnesota that she would not support any efforts to diminish Somalia’s control over its sea or water. She asserted her influence in the U.S. Congress, claiming that the government would act as directed, stressing her commitment to protecting Somalia’s interests.

Expressing gratitude to Somali President Hassan Sheikh, Omar commended the unity and support of Somalis globally. She emphasized the indivisibility of Somalia and the determination to preserve its land. The overall message conveyed Omar’s dedication to prioritizing Somalia’s interests while serving in Congress.

Omar responded to the viral translation on her social media account, dismissing it as slanted and inaccurate. Despite her defense, prominent Republicans, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump Jr., called for her expulsion, denaturalization, and deportation. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) condemned Omar’s remarks as “appalling” and urged her resignation, claiming she violated her oath of office and disrespected the constituents she was elected to serve.

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