The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) is calling on members of Congress to publicly condemn House Majority Whip Tom Emmer following remarks the organization says unfairly targeted Somali Americans and immigrant communities.
According to CAIR-MN, Emmer made the comments during a Faith & Freedom Coalition event in Washington, D.C., where he argued that some Somali immigrants “don’t assimilate” and said those who fail to do so “should go the hell back to where they came from.” He also said he was “done being careful” about being labeled “a racist” or “an Islamophobe.”
The remarks quickly sparked criticism from civil rights organizations and elected officials, who accused the Minnesota Republican of using divisive rhetoric that unfairly stereotypes an entire community.
“Representative Emmer’s comments are beneath the dignity of his office and unworthy of a congressional leader,” said Jaylani Hussein, Executive Director of CAIR-MN. The organization urged lawmakers from both parties to reject what it described as racist and xenophobic language and to reaffirm that Somali Americans are an integral part of Minnesota and the United States.
Minnesota is home to one of the largest Somali diaspora communities in North America. Somali Americans have become increasingly active in business, education, healthcare, public service, and politics, contributing significantly to the state’s economy and civic life.
The controversy comes amid an increasingly polarized national debate over immigration and integration, issues expected to feature prominently in upcoming political campaigns.
As of Monday, there was no immediate indication that congressional leaders planned formal action in response to Emmer’s remarks. The congressman has not publicly retracted his comments.
The episode highlights the continuing tension surrounding immigration politics in the United States, where debates over border security and assimilation often intersect with broader concerns about civil rights, religious freedom, and the treatment of minority communities.
