JidbaaleOver 35 Somali religious leaders and intellectuals in Minnesota have formally backed the Harris-Walz ticket, expressing serious apprehensions on the implications of a second Donald Trump presidency for American Muslims. The endorsement, revealed at an event in St. Cloud, encouraged Somali-American voters to support the Democratic candidates to safeguard their civil rights and against increasing Islamophobia.
The group, representing a segment of Minnesota’s Somali-American community, expressed apprehensions over the Trump administration’s prior Muslim travel restriction, which adversely impacted Somali nationals. Numerous individuals apprehend that Trump’s reinstatement in power will result in the further marginalization of Muslims and immigrants.
“We cannot sit idly by while Trump threatens our communities both here and abroad,” said Imam Mohamed Mukhtar. “His policies—from the travel ban to Project 2025—are intended to create division and propagate animosity.”
The leaders asserted their independence and lack of affiliation with any particular group.
While favoring the Harris-Walz ticket, the alliance was loud in its opposition to many U.S. foreign policies, notably regarding Gaza and Lebanon. They requested an immediate cessation of hostilities in the conflict areas and sought worldwide acknowledgment of Palestinian self-determination.
Despite their foreign policy divergences, Somali officials emphasized that the internal challenges confronting Muslims in America were too pressing to overlook, characterizing Trump’s policies as the most significant danger.
Minnesota has the biggest Somali population in the United States, establishing it as a pivotal center for Somali political and social involvement. Earlier this year, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre visited Minnesota to confer with Governor Walz and other local officials on trade links, sustainable energy investments, and enhanced collaboration between the state and Somalia.
Minnesota’s Somali-American population has been more involved in U.S. politics, becoming a crucial voting group in the state’s elections. Notable people like Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and State Representative Hodan Hassan have become prominent voices campaigning for immigrant and minority rights, helping energize Somali voters to participate in both local and national elections.
