Omar Fateh, a Minneapolis mayoral candidate and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, has made it clear that his top priority would be to protect undocumented immigrants from what he calls the ‘hostile’ federal government under President Donald Trump. During an interview with KARE 11 News, Fateh defended his stance by highlighting the concerns of his immigrant community, particularly in light of Trump’s policies. The candidate, who has secured the endorsement of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party in Minnesota, argued that the city must take a more compassionate approach to public safety, focusing on community-based solutions rather than relying solely on a militarized police force.
Fateh’s position is not without its challenges. While he has received the DFL’s endorsement, he faces competition from incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey, who is also running for re-election. The DFL’s backing of Fateh over Frey has sparked discussions about the future of the Democratic Party in Minnesota. Some have compared Fateh to Zohran Mamdani, a New York City mayoral candidate, noting their similar backgrounds as first-generation immigrants. However, while Mamdani has faced scrutiny for his radical policies, Fateh has made a point to distance himself from such labels, stating that his approach is not ‘radical’ but rather progressive.
Despite his progressive stance, Fateh has also emphasized the importance of public safety. He has pledged to work towards a system where 911 calls that are not violent in nature are addressed by social workers and other community resources rather than armed officers. This approach aligns with his broader goal of reducing police violence and creating a more equitable city. Fateh’s campaign has also included promises to raise the city’s minimum wage, increase the supply of affordable housing, and provide legal IDs to undocumented immigrants. These policies reflect his commitment to addressing the systemic issues facing Minneapolis.
As the mayoral race heats up, the political landscape in Minnesota continues to shape the future of the Democratic Party. The endorsement of Fateh by the DFL has placed him in a strong position, but the challenge remains in translating this support into a decisive victory against Frey. With a mix of progressive and practical policies, Fateh aims to appeal to a broad range of voters, including those who are concerned about the impact of federal policies on local communities.
The race for Minneapolis mayor is not only about policy but also about the direction of the city’s leadership. As Fateh prepares for the upcoming election, his commitment to protecting undocumented immigrants and reimagining public safety will be central to his campaign. With the support of the DFL and a clear message of compassion and reform, Fateh is positioning himself as a leader who is ready to address the pressing issues facing Minneapolis.