MINNEAPOLIS — US Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) was attacked during a town hall she hosted on Tuesday when a man armed with a syringe sprayed an unknown substance at her, according to reports from the Associated Press.
The incident took place shortly after Omar criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and called for the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, saying, “ICE cannot be reformed.”
Video footage obtained by NBC News showed the suspect, dressed in a black jacket, seated in the front row before jumping up and spraying the liquid at the congresswoman. Attendees and security quickly tackled the man to the ground and restrained him, eliciting cheers from the audience.
Minneapolis police confirmed the arrest of the man, who was booked into the county jail on suspicion of third-degree assault. Forensic experts responded to the scene, and Omar resumed the town hall after the suspect was removed, telling attendees she would not be intimidated. Journalists reported a strong vinegar-like odor from the substance in the syringe.
Omar later posted on social media platform X, saying:
“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. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong.”
The attack comes amid heightened tensions in Minneapolis over immigration enforcement, following the recent fatal shooting of an ICU nurse by federal agents. President Donald Trump has frequently targeted Omar, calling her and her associates “garbage” during public appearances, including remarks earlier on Tuesday in Iowa.
The assault drew bipartisan condemnation. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) called the attack “deeply disturbing” and stressed that no elected official should face physical violence. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey described the incident as “unacceptable” and thanked police for their prompt response.
The event follows a recent increase in attacks on lawmakers, including an incident in Utah where a man allegedly punched Rep. Maxwell Frost at the Sundance Film Festival while threatening deportation. Threats against members of Congress have risen sharply since 2021, influencing how some lawmakers approach public events and reelection plans.
Omar has been a frequent target of political attacks, particularly from Trump and other Republican figures, highlighting the increasingly hostile environment for public officials at town halls and community engagements.
