Former Minnesota state representative and longtime DFL operative Joe Radinovich used his X account on Thursday to argue that the ongoing federal investigation into Rep. Ilhan Omar’s immigration status has “legitimacy.” Radinovich, who served in the House from 2013‑2015 and later managed Rick Nolan’s 2016 congressional campaign and Jacob Frey’s 2017 mayoral race, said the evidence suggests Omar’s marriage to Ahmed Nur Said Elmi may have been part of a fraudulent immigration scheme.
Radinovich’s assessment of the probe
“Democrats should understand that the allegation is almost certainly true—whatever conclusion they draw from that point could vary—and her denials calling it a right‑wing, Islamophobic or racist conspiracy are almost certainly not,” Radinovich wrote. He added that the investigation into Omar’s finances also raises “meaningful questions” that have not been answered publicly.
Radinovich emphasized his lack of confidence in the Trump Department of Justice, stating, “I believe the Trump DOJ has next to no credibility and that it’s unclear to me the timing of the raid was appropriate—though it’s notable a DC judge signed off on it—but I’m pretty confident this specific allegation is true.”
Background of the investigation
According to Fox News Digital, the probe into Omar’s alleged marriage began under the Obama administration in 2016. The investigation remained open until 2021, when the Biden administration closed it, citing the statute of limitations. The New York Times reported that investigators believed the limitation period had passed.
On Oct. 12, 2026, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) raided Omar’s Washington, D.C., residence, seizing her passport, phone and computer. Fox News later confirmed that investigators have obtained Omar’s DNA. Omar’s sister, Sahra Noor, voluntarily spoke with investigators shortly after the raid, pausing her book tour for a “family emergency.”
Responses from Omar’s camp and DFL activists
Omar’s office has repeatedly denied the immigration fraud allegation, calling it a “right‑wing smear” and a political “vendetta” by President Donald Trump. Minneapolis DFL activist Briana Rose Lee, who once served as operations director for Omar’s campaign, dismissed Radinovich’s post as a “baseless and manufactured witch hunt,” writing, “You aren’t stupid. I’m actually surprised to see this from you. It’s a new low.”
Radinovich stood by his comments, replying, “You’re right. I’m not stupid.” He reiterated his belief that the evidence points to wrongdoing and that the Trump DOJ’s credibility is in question.
Political implications
The discussion highlights a growing partisan divide over the handling of alleged immigration fraud involving a sitting congresswoman. While conservative outlets have highlighted the investigation as evidence of accountability, many DFL members continue to frame the probe as a politically motivated attack.
Radinovich’s statements also underscore the lingering impact of investigations launched under previous administrations. By noting the Obama‑era origin of the case and its closure by the Biden administration, he suggests a continuity of concern that transcends party lines, even as he casts doubt on the current administration’s role.
What’s next?
The federal investigation remains open, and no criminal charges have been filed to date. Legal experts note that any potential denaturalization would require a separate court proceeding. As the case proceeds, both supporters and critics of Rep. Omar will likely continue to use the investigation as a rallying point in the broader debate over immigration enforcement and congressional accountability.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
