How Minnesota became a hub for Somali immigrants to the U.S.

A federal investigation has been launched into alleged fraud within Minnesota's Somali community, linked to a COVID-19 aid scheme that reportedly defrauded the Small Business Administration (SBA) of approximately $1 billion. This probe is part of ongoing scrutiny into the misuse of pandemic relief funds, particularly involving community organizations associated with Governor Tim Walz's administration.

A rural transit system in Minnesota is set to enhance transportation options by introducing a fleet of autonomous vehicles, addressing the limited mobility faced by residents in these areas. This initiative aims to improve accessibility and convenience for the local population.

Local leaders in Minnesota are defending the Somali community following a series of derogatory remarks made by former President Trump, who criticized Somali immigrants and suggested they should leave the U.S. This backlash comes amid reports of planned immigration enforcement targeting Somali individuals in the Minneapolis area.

Federal immigration raids initiated by ICE and Border Patrol have begun in Minneapolis and New Orleans, with reports indicating that operations in Minnesota may specifically target Somali immigrants. This follows President Donald Trump's recent derogatory remarks about the Somali community, suggesting they should 'go back to where they came from.'

An Afghan national was arrested in Texas for allegedly planning to detonate his vehicle as a bomb, a plot he shared on social media platforms TikTok and Facebook. This incident follows a recent shooting in Washington, D.C., where two National Guard members were critically injured, raising concerns about security and immigration policies. President Trump has responded to these events by pausing immigration from Afghanistan.

Republican Matt Van Epps secured a victory in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District special election, winning by a margin of 52% to 46% against Democrat Aftyn Behn. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was closely watched due to its implications for both parties ahead of the midterms. Van Epps' win, although significant, was less decisive than the 20-point margin achieved by President Trump in the previous election.

The House Homeland Security Committee is holding a hearing on the increasing violence against law enforcement, following a recent targeted shooting incident that critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard near the White House. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel amid ongoing tensions in the capital.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is at the center of a heated debate regarding a military strike in September that resulted in the deaths of survivors from an initial attack on an alleged drug boat. Hegseth defended the follow-up strike, claiming he did not see any survivors due to 'the fog of war,' a statement that has drawn significant scrutiny and criticism.