On December 7, 2025, Democratic Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar discussed a significant COVID relief fraud scheme during an interview on CBS News. The scheme involved nearly $1 billion in taxpayer money, primarily affecting the Somali community in Minnesota, where many suspects were of Somali descent.
1. Fraud Scheme Overview:
• The fraud scheme reportedly stole almost $1 billion intended for feeding schoolchildren.
• The Biden-era Justice Department labeled it the largest COVID fraud scheme in the nation.
• Out of 87 people charged, about 90% were of Somali descent.
2. Omar's Response:
• Omar expressed frustration that the Somali community's anger about the fraud is not acknowledged.
• She argued that the scheme has impacted all Minnesota taxpayers, including Somalis who could have benefited from the funds misappropriated.
3. Claims of Racism:
• During the interview, host Margaret Brennan noted that the organization central to the fraud, Feeding Our Future, initially defended itself by claiming that the investigation was racially motivated.
• Omar highlighted that the program was led by a Caucasian woman to suggest that this rhetoric was used to mask the ongoing fraud.
4. Legal Outcomes:
• A federal jury convicted Aimee Bock, the founder of Feeding Our Future, and Salim Said, a Somali restaurant owner, for their roles in the fraud.
• The acting U. S. Attorney confirmed that they exploited the COVID pandemic, jeopardizing funds meant to aid children.
5. Allegations of Terrorism Link:
• Brennan brought up suspicions that the scheme might be linked to terrorism, specifically mentioning al-Shabaab.
• Omar stated she was confident that no such link had been established but pointed to a failure of the FBI and courts if taxpayer money was indeed misused for terrorism.
6. Concerns About Funding to Al-Shabaab:
• Reports suggest that funds from the fraud scheme might have ended up with al-Shabaab, with claims that Minnesota taxpayers were the largest funders.
• Omar stated a need for accountability and emphasized that if U. S. tax dollars funded terrorism, they need to ensure those responsible are prosecuted to prevent recurrence.
Ilhan Omar's remarks highlighted the complexities surrounding the COVID relief fraud scheme involving the Somali community. The discussion emphasized community frustrations, potential racial accusations, legal ramifications, and serious concerns about terrorism financing. Omar's position seeks to address the ramifications on her community and demand accountability for any possible misuse of taxpayer funds.
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