Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has reignited a long-running controversy surrounding Rep. Ilhan Omar, accusing the Minnesota Democrat of marrying her brother as part of an alleged scheme to commit immigration fraud.
Mullin made the explosive allegation at the Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas, saying federal investigators are examining Omar’s immigration history and suggesting that she could face serious consequences if the government determines that she committed fraud.
Mullin said investigators believe Omar married Ahmed Nur Said Elmi, whom he identified as her brother, to facilitate his immigration to the United States. He described the matter as an ongoing investigation.
The allegation is not new. Omar has repeatedly denied that Elmi was her brother and has rejected accusations that their marriage was fraudulent. The congresswoman has maintained that the marriage was legal and has disputed claims about their relationship.
The renewed controversy comes as immigration enforcement remains a major political issue in Washington.
Mullin indicated that if investigators uncover evidence that Omar knowingly provided false information on immigration documents, the government could pursue immigration-related penalties including deportation.
