U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) was attacked during a town hall she hosted on Tuesday in Minneapolis when a man armed with a syringe sprayed an unknown substance at her, authorities and eyewitnesses confirmed.
According to the Associated Press, the suspect was quickly subdued by attendees and security personnel. Video footage obtained by NBC News showed the man, wearing a black jacket, seated in the front row before jumping up to spray the liquid at Omar. Witnesses reported a strong, vinegar-like smell when the syringe was pressed.
Despite the disruption, Omar resumed the town hall after the suspect was removed, telling attendees she would not be intimidated. “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,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter) following the incident.
Minneapolis police confirmed the attack and said the man was immediately arrested and booked into the county jail on suspicion of third-degree assault. Forensic experts responded to the scene to collect evidence.
The incident occurred shortly after Omar had criticised U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and called for the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, stating, “ICE cannot be reformed.”
The attack drew swift condemnation across the political spectrum. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey described the act as “unacceptable” and praised law enforcement’s rapid response. U.S. Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) also denounced the assault, emphasising that no elected official should face physical attacks regardless of political disagreements.
The incident comes amid heightened political tensions in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of an intensive care nurse by federal agents earlier this month. Omar has previously been targeted by former President Donald Trump, who has criticised her publicly on multiple occasions, including during a rally earlier on Tuesday in Iowa.
Threats and attacks against members of Congress have risen in recent years, peaking after the January 6 Capitol attack and contributing to security concerns that affect lawmakers’ willingness to hold town halls or public events.
Omar reported feeling shaken but uninjured and planned to undergo screening by a medical team after the town hall.
