President Trump took a jab Thursday at Rep. Ilhan Omar, saying he told Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to “take back” the left-wing Democrat after she spewed what he called vile remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The zinger — delivered after Omar’s string of vicious tirades against slain Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk — drew laughs and applause from Vice President JD Vance, FBI Director Kash Patel, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, and other top officials who clearly enjoyed the shot, the New York Post reported.
One day after Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at an outdoor speaking event in Utah on Sept. 10, Omar criticized the widespread tributes to Kirk and denounced what she described as his “hateful rhetoric.”
“There are a lot of people who are talking about him just wanting to have a civil debate,” Omar told the progressive outlet Zeteo. “These people are full of s— and it’s important for us to call them out while we feel anger and sadness.”
She later posted a separate video on X criticizing Democrats and celebrities for “normalizing Kirk,” calling the Trump ally a “reprehensible human being” and a “stochastic terrorist.”
Omar reiterated her criticism during an appearance on CNN. “I’m not going to sit here and be judged for not wanting to honor any legacy this man has left behind, that should be in the dustbin of history, and we should hopefully move on and forget the hate that he spewed every day,” she complained.
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) introduced a measure to censure Omar, accusing her of “celebrating murder,” but the resolution was narrowly defeated last week after four House Republicans joined Democrats in opposition.
It failed 214–213, preventing the measure from reaching a full House vote. Reps. Mike Flood of Nebraska, Tom McClintock of California, Jeff Hurd of Colorado, and Cory Mills of Florida — joined Democrats in supporting the move.
In a statement to Explain America’s Carmine Sabia, Mace ripped Omar over her remarks. “If you’re Somalia first, you’re not America first, and a one-way ticket to Somalia is the nicest thing we could do,” she said.
Earlier, in a response to Omar, Mace posted on the X platform: “If you celebrate murder, maybe Somalia can take you back.”
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Mace said Omar mocked the assassination of Kirk, who was a husband and father of two.
“Now she’s lashing out because we called her out. What’s not ‘well’ is celebrating political violence,” Mace said. “What’s not ‘smart’ is defending it. Omar should be ashamed of herself. Omar can throw insults all day, but it won’t save her from accountability. She crossed the line, and we’re not letting her get away with it. Go back to Somalia.”
Pro golfer Phil Mickelson also criticized Omar for her remarks about Kirk, saying she should be “sent back” to her native East African country.
“Ilhan spews hate every time she opens her mouth, she came here fraudulently and will hopefully be sent back to Somalia soon,” the LIV Tour golfer wrote on X. The three-time Masters champ’s remarks were in response to a video of the left-wing politician calling Kirk “Dr. Frankenstein” and saying he “was killed by his monster.”
Tyler Robinson, 22, who authorities say espoused leftist views and was in a relationship with a transgender partner, has been charged with aggravated murder and other offenses in the killing of Charlie Kirk, a father of two, at Utah Valley University.
Representative Ilhan Omar has found herself at the center of a political firestorm following her recent comments regarding conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. In an interview with Mehdi Hasan, Omar appeared to downplay the tragedy surrounding Kirk, who was recently targeted in a violent incident, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for her expulsion from Congress.
During the interview, Omar made several statements that many interpreted as dismissive of Kirk’s situation. She referenced his past comments on various issues, including gun rights and race relations, suggesting that his political ideology contributed to the animosity he faced. “Charlie was someone who once said, you know, guns save lives after a school shooting,” Omar stated. She further criticized Kirk for his views on racial issues, claiming he had shown a lack of empathy towards marginalized communities.
The remarks sparked outrage, particularly among conservative circles, who accused Omar of celebrating violence against political opponents. Critics argued that her comments were not only insensitive but also indicative of a broader trend of hostility towards conservative figures.
Political Reactions and Calls for Accountability
In response to Omar’s comments, former President Donald Trump weighed in, stating that those who celebrate violence against political adversaries should face consequences. He suggested that individuals who openly condone such actions could risk having their visas revoked and be deported. This statement was part of a broader critique of what he termed a “dangerous rhetoric” coming from the left.
House Speaker Mike Johnson also expressed concern over Omar’s remarks, emphasizing the need for accountability. He noted that while free speech is a fundamental right, it does not exempt individuals from facing repercussions for their statements, especially when they seem to incite violence or celebrate tragedy.
Omar’s Defense and Continued Controversy
In the wake of the backlash, Omar defended her comments, arguing that they were misinterpreted. She called for Americans to reject what she described as a “dictatorship” under Trump and urged citizens to protest against the current administration’s policies. Omar’s remarks about the military presence in American streets and her comparisons to authoritarian regimes further fueled the controversy.
Omar’s supporters argue that her comments were taken out of context and that she was merely advocating for accountability in political discourse. However, many critics maintain that her words reflect a troubling trend of inciting division and hostility in political discussions.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
The incident has ignited a heated debate on social media, with hashtags like #ExpelOmar trending as users express their outrage. Prominent conservative figures have called for her expulsion from Congress, framing her statements as a betrayal of American values. Comments such as “Ilhan Omar is a traitor to our nation” have been echoed by various commentators, reflecting a growing sentiment among some factions of the political right.
On the other hand, Omar’s supporters argue that the backlash is a politically motivated attempt to silence dissenting voices. They assert that her criticisms of Kirk’s ideology are valid and necessary in a democratic society where diverse opinions should be encouraged.
The Bigger Picture: Political Polarization
This incident highlights the increasing polarization in American politics, where comments made by public figures can quickly escalate into national controversies. The reactions to Omar’s statements underscore the deep divisions that exist within the political landscape, with each side interpreting the situation through vastly different lenses.
As the fallout continues, it remains to be seen what consequences, if any, Omar will face. The call for her expulsion reflects a growing frustration among some lawmakers and constituents who feel that such rhetoric has no place in civil discourse.
Conclusion: A Divided Response
Ilhan Omar’s remarks about Charlie Kirk have sparked significant controversy, drawing sharp criticism from conservatives and prompting discussions about the limits of free speech in political discourse. As the situation develops, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures in navigating a highly charged political environment. The incident encapsulates the ongoing struggle between differing ideologies and the need for respectful dialogue in a democracy