Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar faced a shocking attack during a town hall event on Tuesday. A 55-year-old audience member, Anthony James Kazmierczak, used a syringe to spray an unknown liquid at her. Despite the incident, Omar was unharmed and continued speaking to the crowd.
“I’m okay. I’m a survivor, and this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me,” Omar wrote on X. “I don’t let bullies win.”
Authorities have not yet determined the nature of the liquid. A BBC journalist in attendance noted it had a sour smell similar to a chemical product. Kazmierczak has been charged with third-degree assault and is currently in custody.
Omar Criticizes Immigration Policies
During the event, Omar addressed the presence of federal immigration officials in Minnesota. She called for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), criticizing its role in recent fatal shootings of U.S. citizens in the state.
Omar also called on Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security official overseeing ICE, to “resign or face impeachment.” Her comments came shortly before the attack occurred.
Standing Strong Amid Threats
Omar insisted on continuing the event despite police advice to stop. She told the audience, “We will continue… we are Minnesota strong,” and later added, “We’re gonna keep talking. Just give me 10 minutes. Please don’t let them have the show.”
Attendees praised her courage. Alfred Flowers Jr. said, “I respected her strength to stay and finish the town hall for the people.” Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the attack, stating, “Violence and intimidation have no place in Minneapolis. This behavior will not be tolerated.”
Background on Omar and Political Tensions
Ilhan Omar, first elected to Congress in 2019, is the first Somali-American and one of the first Muslim American women to serve in the U.S. House. She has frequently clashed with former President Donald Trump, who has targeted her personally in speeches and social media posts.
Trump’s recent immigration crackdown in Minneapolis has drawn heavy criticism from Omar. Earlier this month, Trump suggested immigrants should prove their loyalty to the U.S., contrasting them with Omar in his comments. He also criticized her on Truth Social, calling her a “fraud” and claiming she should face punishment or be sent back to Somalia.
Rising Threats to Lawmakers
The attack on Omar comes amid rising threats against U.S. lawmakers. The U.S. Capitol Police reported a 50% increase in threats last year, marking the third consecutive year of rising incidents against members of Congress, their families, and aides.
