Former acting ICE Director Tom Homan says federal immigration officials are taking a “closer look” at past documents connected to Rep. Ilhan Omar, a move that has reignited long-running political tensions surrounding the Minnesota Democrat.
Homan, who now serves as a senior border adviser, suggested during recent interviews that investigators are reviewing old immigration files after renewed claims that Omar may have misrepresented aspects of her early marital history. Omar has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing for years, calling the allegations fabrications pushed by opponents.
According to Homan, the review is part of a broader effort to examine potential fraud cases already flagged by previous administrations. He did not specify whether the review has led to any formal findings or actions, and no government agency has announced that deportation proceedings are underway. Legal experts note that deporting a naturalized U.S. citizen would require a lengthy court process and clear evidence that citizenship was obtained fraudulently.
Omar’s office responded by criticizing what they described as politically driven attacks designed to target both her and Minnesota’s Somali community, many of whom have been the focus of recent immigration enforcement efforts. Local leaders in Minneapolis have warned that the rhetoric could further inflame tensions within the state.
The renewed attention comes as immigration issues dominate national debate, with supporters of Homan’s approach arguing that no one should be exempt from accountability, while critics say the push is aimed at undermining a sitting member of Congress for political gain.
For now, the review appears to be in its early stages, and it remains unclear whether it will result in any official actions. Both sides, however, are using the moment to rally their supporters as the country heads deeper into a highly charged political climate.