Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar was attacked with an unknown substance during a town hall meeting in north Minneapolis on Tuesday. Police said a man used a syringe to spray liquid at her while she was speaking.
Witnesses described the liquid as having a sour, chemical-like smell. Omar was not injured and continued the event, later posting on X that she would not be intimidated: “I’m ok. I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work. I don’t let bullies win.”
The suspect, Anthony James Kazmierczak, 55, was arrested immediately and charged with third-degree assault.
Video footage showed security shouting “make a hole” as they wrestled him out of the room. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the incident, saying violence and intimidation would not be tolerated in the city.
Political Context and Reactions
The town hall, attended by about 100 people, focused on immigration enforcement after two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal officers earlier in January reignited protests.
Omar called for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to be abolished and demanded the resignation or impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The attack occurred shortly after those remarks.
Despite pleas from officials to end the meeting, Omar insisted on continuing, telling attendees: “We’re gonna keep talking. Just give me ten minutes. Please don’t let them have the show.” Attendees praised her courage, with one saying he respected her strength to finish the event.
The incident comes amid heightened political tensions. President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted Omar, calling her a “radical left lunatic” and suggesting she should be jailed or deported.
Minnesota, home to the largest Somali immigrant population in the U.S., remains a focal point of immigration debates.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment 💬, Share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
