Ilhan Omar Addresses Brother-Husband Allegations in Tense Interview
The congresswoman offered a non-committal response when questioned about marrying her alleged sibling.
Embattled Congresswoman Ilhan Omar faced direct questioning about the persistent allegations that she married her brother, Ahmed Nur Said Elmi. In an interview with MS NOW’s Chris Hayes, Omar, a member of the progressive "Squad," appeared uncomfortable and hesitant when addressing the claim.
Omar attributed the origin of the rumor to a Somali blog and subsequent amplification by right-wing media. "Somebody put it there, that he had to have been my brother or something to that effect," she stated. "And right wing conspiracy theorists in Minneapolis got a hold of it."
When Hayes pressed further, asking if she was related to her ex-husband, Elmi, Omar responded, "Not to my knowledge," a statement that drew skepticism and further fueled the controversy.
The allegations suggest Omar married Elmi for immigration purposes, a claim that has dogged the Minnesota Democrat. The congresswoman has previously dismissed the accusations as "insane" but has not explicitly denied the relationship.
This interview marks Omar's attempt to address the escalating scandal, which has intensified following federal investigations and leaked information, including reports of DNA evidence potentially linking Omar to immigration fraud. Earlier in the week, Omar had also released a video criticizing President Trump and appealing to supporters for financial contributions.