Trump Terminates Deportation Protections for Somalis in Minnesota

Former President Donald Trump has announced the immediate termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis residing in Minnesota, citing concerns over alleged fraudulent activities and connections to terrorism. This decision, communicated on November 21, 2025, via Truth Social, has significant implications for the substantial Somali community in the state.

Trump’s post described Minnesota as a “hub of fraudulent money laundering activity” and claimed that Somali gangs are terrorizing residents. He stated, “I am, as President of the United States, hereby terminating, effective immediately, the Temporary Protected Status for Somalis in Minnesota.” He concluded with a strong call to action: “Send them back to where they came from. It’s OVER!”

The TPS program was initially established to provide legal protections for individuals from countries experiencing dangerous conditions. For many Somalis, this status has allowed them to live and work in the United States due to the ongoing instability in their home country. The abrupt termination raises serious concerns about their future and the potential impact on local communities.

Trump’s announcement follows a report from the Manhattan Institute, a conservative think tank, which alleged that millions of dollars were diverted to the Somali terror group Al-Shabaab through fraudulent activities connected to the Feeding Our Future initiative. This program, designed to provide meals to children during the COVID-19 pandemic, has faced scrutiny for allegedly embezzling hundreds of millions in federal funds.

The report, authored by Ryan Thorpe and Christopher F. Rufo, claims to have uncovered a complex network of fraudulent activities involving various organizations, including programs related to Minnesota’s Medicaid Housing Stabilization Services. These allegations suggest that stolen funds may have been funneled back to Somalia, ultimately benefiting Al-Shabaab, which is designated as a terrorist organization.

The federal investigation into the Feeding Our Future scheme has intensified discussions around financial fraud in Minnesota. The involvement of a known terrorist group adds a new layer of complexity to the situation, leading to increased scrutiny and concern within the community. Federal counterterrorism sources have reportedly corroborated claims made in the Manhattan Institute report, lending further credibility to the allegations.

The political ramifications of this decision are expected to be significant. Governor Walz‘s office and the White House have been approached for comments, highlighting the widespread attention this issue has garnered. The connection of Somali individuals to alleged criminal activities and terrorist organizations is likely to fuel contentious political debates.

The termination of TPS for Somalis could exacerbate existing challenges in Minnesota, where issues of fraud and financial instability have already been prevalent. The accusations against the Somali community, coupled with the abrupt nature of the announcement, may lead to increased tensions and community upheaval.

This decision marks a significant shift in the legal landscape for Somali nationals and their families, raising critical questions about immigration, national security, and the protection of vulnerable populations. The implications of ending TPS extend beyond immediate national security concerns, touching on issues of legal fairness and due process.

As the situation evolves, further investigations into the allegations may shape the political and legal framework surrounding the Somali community in Minnesota. The potential impact on individuals’ lives and livelihoods cannot be understated, as many now face an uncertain future in the wake of this controversial decision.