Wayne Lumbasi
Salman Fiqy, a Somali‑American who had long been active in Republican politics, has publicly announced that he is breaking ties with Donald Trump following the president’s recent demeaning remarks about Somali immigrants.
Fiqy, who previously campaigned for Trump and other republican candidates, proudly wearing a MAGA hat, had been a prominent figure in outreach efforts to Somali‑American communities, advocating for engagement and political participation within the Republican Party. His sudden withdrawal of support marks a striking turn in the narrative of immigrant engagement with conservative politics.
The controversy erupted after Trump described Somali immigrants, particularly in Minnesota, as “garbage” and claimed they “contribute nothing” to American society. He also attacked Somali‑American politicians, including Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, calling her and her associates “trash.”
For Fiqy, the remarks were a personal affront. Speaking publicly, he condemned the president’s language as “unacceptable” and said it dehumanized not only the Somali community but all immigrants striving to build lives in the United States.
“I cannot support someone who denigrates my own community,” Fiqy said, emphasizing that political alignment on policy cannot outweigh attacks on human dignity.
Fiqy’s break with Trump is particularly notable because of his previous dedication to republican campaigns. He had worked tirelessly to encourage Somali‑Americans to engage in conservative politics, believing that participation could bridge communities and influence policy from within. Yet, he said that the president’s rhetoric crossed a line, transforming political disagreement into racial insult.
“I have conservative values, but loyalty has limits,” Fiqy stated, adding that Trump’s words were a betrayal of trust and respect.
The Somali‑American community has largely rallied around Fiqy’s stance. Many residents in Minnesota’s Somali neighborhoods described the president’s comments as hurtful and divisive, intensifying fears of discrimination and social exclusion.
Community leaders praised Fiqy for speaking out, framing his public disavowal as a powerful reminder that xenophobic language has real consequences, even among previous supporters.
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