Congresswoman Ilhan Omar Sprayed with Unknown Substance at Minneapolis Town Hall; Suspect Arrested for Assault
MINNEAPOLIS — U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) was targeted in a shocking assault during a town hall event in North Minneapolis on Tuesday evening when a man rushed the stage and sprayed her with an unknown liquid using a syringe, authorities confirmed[1][2]. The incident, which unfolded amid heightened political tensions, ended with the swift arrest of the attacker, but not before sparking alarm among attendees and drawing condemnation from law enforcement.
The disturbance occurred as Omar was addressing a crowd on local issues, including immigration policy. According to the Minneapolis Police Department, officers present at the event observed the man charge the podium, deploy the syringe to squirt the substance toward the congresswoman, and then engage in a brief struggle before being tackled by security[2]. He was booked into Hennepin County Jail on charges of third-degree assault. No injuries were reported to Omar, and the nature of the liquid remains under investigation[1][2][3].
Omar’s Defiant Response
In a statement released by her office shortly after the event, Omar’s team described the attacker as an “agitator” who attempted to disrupt the proceedings. “Security and the Minneapolis Police Department quickly apprehended the individual. He is now in custody. The Congresswoman is okay. She continued with her town hall because she doesn’t let bullies win,” the statement read[1].
True to her words, Omar refused to let the attack derail the event. Video footage from the scene shows her calmly asserting, “I’m going to finish my remarks. It is important for me to continue.” She added a profanity-laced rebuke, declaring, “We will continue. These f—— a——- are not going to get away with it!”[2]. Speaking to reporters afterward, Omar emphasized her resilience: “You know, I’ve survived more, and I’m definitely going to survive intimidation and whatever these people think that they can throw at me because I’m built that way.”[2].
Broader Context of Political Tensions
The attack comes against a backdrop of escalating friction in Minneapolis between local officials and the Trump administration over a aggressive immigration crackdown. Federal agents have been involved in operations that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. citizens in shootings, fueling outrage among progressive leaders like Omar[2]. Just moments before the incident, Omar had called for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a stance that has long made her a lightning rod for criticism[2].
Adding to the timing, President Trump mentioned Omar in a speech in Iowa earlier that evening, just outside Des Moines, highlighting her as a point of contention[4]. Omar has been a frequent target of Trump, who on Monday referenced his Department of Justice and Congress in comments that allies interpreted as intensifying scrutiny on her and similar figures[3].
Federal Response and Rising Threats
The U.S. Capitol Police issued a strong statement condemning the assault: “Tonight, a man is in custody after he decided to assault a Member of Congress — an unacceptable decision that will be met with swift justice.” The agency pledged to work with federal partners to pursue the “most serious charges possible to deter this kind of violence in our society.”[2].
Capitol Police data underscores the growing dangers faced by lawmakers. Threats against members of Congress, their families, and staff rose for the third consecutive year, with 14,938 concerning incidents investigated last year compared to 9,474 in 2024[2]. This surge reflects a polarized political climate where verbal attacks increasingly spill into physical confrontations.
“These f—— a——- are not going to get away with it!”
— Rep. Ilhan Omar, immediately after the attack[2]
Community Reaction and Investigation Ongoing
Attendees at the town hall reacted with cries of alarm as the man was subdued and removed from the room. Minneapolis Police have not yet released the suspect’s name or motive, but the rapid response prevented further harm[2][3]. Local leaders praised the security team’s efficiency, while advocates for Omar decried the incident as part of a pattern of harassment against the congresswoman, one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress.
As investigations continue, the event serves as a stark reminder of the risks public servants face in an era of deep divisions. Omar’s decision to press on with her remarks has been hailed by supporters as a symbol of unwavering commitment to her constituents.
This story is developing. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from official sources.