DeSantis Calls for Expulsion of Rep. Ilhan Omar After Controversial Remarks on Somalia

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Calls for Expulsion of Rep. Ilhan Omar After Controversial Remarks on Somalia

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is calling for sweeping action against Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), urging Congress to expel her and federal authorities to pursue denaturalization and deportation following remarks in which she appeared to emphasize her role in protecting Somali interests.

DeSantis, a former Republican presidential candidate, made the comments on social media after video surfaced of Omar speaking to a Somali audience. In the speech, Omar said her presence in Congress ensures Somalia’s interests are protected within the U.S. political system.

“The U.S. is a country where one of your daughters is in Congress to represent your interest,” Omar said. “For as long as I am in the U.S. Congress, Somalia will never be in danger, its waters will not be stolen by Ethiopia or others. Sleep in comfort, knowing I am here to protect the interests of Somalia from inside the U.S. system.”

In another portion of her remarks, Omar said, “We, as Somalians, love each other… people who know they are Somalians first and Muslim second who protect one another and come to each other’s aid and to the aid of other Muslims too.”

DeSantis reacted sharply, writing on X: “Expel from Congress, denaturalize and deport!” His statement quickly drew national attention and intensified partisan debate over Omar’s comments.

The Florida governor was the most prominent among several Republican leaders who criticized Omar, arguing that her remarks raise serious concerns about loyalty and the role of elected officials in representing U.S. interests. Critics contend that a member of Congress must prioritize American interests above those of any foreign nation.

Supporters of Omar, however, argue her remarks were taken out of context and reflect advocacy for peace, stability, and human rights rather than allegiance to a foreign government. They note that Omar, a refugee who became a U.S. citizen, has consistently said her work in Congress is grounded in American democratic values.

Omar has not issued a new response directly addressing DeSantis’ call for expulsion, denaturalization, or deportation. Legal experts note that expelling a member of Congress would require a two-thirds vote of the House of Representatives, while denaturalization and deportation involve separate legal processes overseen by federal courts.

The controversy adds to a long-running pattern of political clashes surrounding Omar, who has frequently been at the center of national debates over foreign policy, immigration, and free speech.

As reactions continue to pour in, the episode underscores the heightened political tensions surrounding questions of national identity, representation, and the responsibilities of elected officials in an increasingly polarized political climate.

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FAQs: DeSantis’ Call to Expel Rep. Ilhan Omar

What did Governor Ron DeSantis call for?

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called for Rep. Ilhan Omar to be expelled from Congress and for federal authorities to pursue denaturalization and deportation.

Why did DeSantis make these remarks?

DeSantis reacted to comments made by Omar in which she spoke about protecting Somalia’s interests while serving in the U.S. Congress.

What exactly did Ilhan Omar say?

Omar said that her presence in Congress ensures Somalia’s interests are protected and referred to herself as representing Somali interests within the U.S. political system.

Where were Omar’s remarks made?

The comments were delivered during a speech to a Somali audience and later circulated on social media.

How have Republicans responded?

Several Republican figures criticized Omar’s statements, with DeSantis issuing the strongest response by calling for expulsion and deportation.

Has Ilhan Omar responded to DeSantis’ comments?

As of now, Omar has not issued a new public statement directly responding to DeSantis’ call.

Can a member of Congress be expelled?

Yes. The U.S. House of Representatives can expel a member with a two-thirds majority vote.

Is denaturalization legally possible?

Denaturalization is a rare legal process that requires federal court action and proof that citizenship was unlawfully obtained.

Can a sitting member of Congress be deported?

Deportation would require denaturalization first and would involve extensive legal proceedings.

What are supporters of Omar saying?

Supporters argue her comments were taken out of context and that she remains committed to U.S. democratic values.

What happens next?

There is no formal expulsion process underway at this time. Any action would require congressional or judicial proceedings.