A new controversy erupted after US Vice President JD Vance claimed that Congresswoman Ilhan Omar committed immigration fraud, prompting a sharp response from the Republic of Somaliland.
The remarks intensified political tensions, with Omar and her office strongly rejecting the claims as baseless.
Somaliland’s response is noteworthy
In a post on social media platform X, Somaliland provocatively responded to the controversy: “Deportation? Please, you’re just sending the princess back to her kingdom. Extradition? Say the word…”
Vance Alleges ‘Immigration Fraud’
Speaking on a podcast interview with commentator Benny Johnson, Vance said the administration is exploring possible legal avenues.
“We think Ilhan Omar definitely committed immigration fraud against the United States of America,” Vance said.
He added, “We’re trying to look at what the remedies are … how do you go after it, how do you investigate it, how do you actually build the case necessary to get justice for the American people?”
Vance also said he had discussed the issue with White House immigration adviser Stephen Miller.
Omar denies the allegations
Omar has repeatedly denied the longstanding allegationsincluding claims previously made by Donald Trump and allies that she married her brother to gain entry to the United States.
In December, Omar denied the charges in a social media post saying: “He needs serious help. With no economic policies to tout, he instead resorts to repeating bigoted lies.”
The authority called the claim a “ridiculous lie”
Omar’s chief of staff, Connor McNutt, strongly rejected Vance’s comments in a statement.
“This is a ridiculous lie and a desperate attempt to divert attention,” McNutt said.
He added: “It’s rich from someone who literally said he was willing to ‘make up stories’ to redirect the media.”
The statement further accused political opponents of using the dispute to divert attention from broader political issues.
