Obama attacks federal raid on Rep. Ilhan Omar as Trump team presses immigration probe
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Former President Barack Obama criticized a federal search of Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home, framing it as intimidation, while the Trump administration’s investigation into possible conspiracy and false statements on immigration paperwork continues.
Former President Barack Obama on Sunday condemned a federal raid on the Washington, D.C., residence of Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., describing it as a "transparent" attempt by the Trump administration to intimidate her and shield a political ally from scrutiny. > "The full weight of the federal government is being brought down on a law-abiding elected official because she has dared to criticize the president," Obama wrote on X.
The search, conducted last week, is part of a Justice Department investigation that may include charges of conspiracy and false statements on immigration paperwork, though officials have not disclosed any evidence. Omar, a naturalized citizen born in Somalia, tied the raid to President Donald Trump, saying it was an effort to target political enemies and weaponize law enforcement. > "For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation," Omar posted.
Obama also challenged the administration’s alleged move to deport Omar, arguing that the basis for such action is unsubstantiated and politically motivated. He warned that any president using federal power to intimidate critics could set a dangerous precedent. The raid occurred close to the midterm elections and during a federal holiday, raising concerns among Justice Department veterans about its timing and the appearance of political theater.