During a federal search of Ilhan Omar’s home in Washington on October 12, her phone, personal computer, notebooks and passport were seized. The search was alleged to be part of an investigation focused on Omar’s citizenship application process ahead of the congressional midterm elections on November 3.
U.S. officials and sources familiar with the matter said the inquiry also covers Omar’s immigration documents and the process by which her late father, Nur Omar Mohamed, brought his family to the United States. The investigation is alleged to be seeking grounds to revoke Omar’s citizenship and deport her.
Nur Omar Mohamed brought Omar and other family members to the United States from a refugee camp in Kenya in 1995.
Subpoenas issued for federal grand jury
More than a dozen people, including some of Omar’s relatives, were subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury in Minnesota.
The federal search was conducted as part of a criminal investigation being pursued by the Department of Homeland Security, with the inquiry linked to Omar’s immigration documents.
Reactions to the search
The Council on American-Islamic Relations condemned the search of Omar’s home and described it as an “act of political persecution.” Omar’s office also condemned the search, arguing that power had been abused.
Earlier allegations involving Omar
Ilhan Omar, who is of Somali origin, was elected to the U.S. House from Minnesota in 2018. Omar is 44 years old.
Vice President JD Vance announced in May that an investigation would be opened into Omar, who is known for her strong opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump, over allegations of fraud in immigration proceedings. Omar denied the allegations.
Omar’s immigration history was also reviewed by Department of Homeland Security officials during Trump’s first term, when investigators concluded there was not enough evidence of wrongdoing. Omar’s spokesperson described the new investigation as Trump targeting his political opponents and using federal law enforcement for political ends. Trump said he had nothing to do with directing the probe and that the matter is the responsibility of the Justice Department. Omar is seeking re-election to the House of Representatives on Nov. 3.
