Newly re-elected Minneapolis Democratic Mayor Jacob Frey has come under fire for delivering a victory speech in Somali, claiming Minneapolis belongs to Somalia, sparking criticism from conservative figures and pundits. The speech, which included chanting in Somali, drew sharp reactions, with some accusing him of pandering and others calling it a humiliation.
Frey’s remarks were part of a broader political landscape involving ranked-choice voting and endorsements from high-profile Democrats. Frey’s victory in the mayoral election was narrowly secured against a challenge from socialist Minneapolis state Senator Omar Fateh, who was backed by progressive groups and prominent figures in the Democratic Party, including Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., also endorsed Frey’s campaign. While speaking with a crowd of Somali residents after his victory, Frey repeatedly thanked the crowd in Somali, reinforcing his appeal to the community.
Conservative pundits have condemned Frey’s speech, with some calling it a form of pandering and others labeling it as the most humiliating moment they have seen. Commentator Gerry Callahan criticized Frey, stating that it was an American politician, raised and educated in America, representing Americans, who was prostrating himself before foreigners. Podcaster Matt Walsh also weighed in, suggesting that politicians should be required by law to speak English when addressing the public in an official capacity.
This is not the first time Frey has faced criticism over Somali language political messaging. In September, he was widely criticized for releasing a campaign ad in Somali, which drew comments from various Republican members of Congress, including Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, who called for a stop to such practices. Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., responded with a disapproving GIF, and Kari Lake simply wrote,