US House Majority whip calls for deportation of Somalis tied to Minnesota fraud cases
'If they’re here illegally, deport them immediately; if they’re naturalized citizens, revoke their citizenship and deport them quickly thereafter,' says Tom Emmer
WASHINGTON
US House Majority Whip Tom Emmer on Tuesday called for the denaturalization and deportation of Somalis linked to fraud in the state of Minnesota.
"I have three words regarding Somalis who have committed fraud against American taxpayers: Send them home.
"If they’re here illegally, deport them immediately; if they’re naturalized citizens, revoke their citizenship and deport them quickly thereafter. If we need to change the law to do that, I will," Emmer said in a statement.
His comments follow testimony from Assistant US Attorney for Minnesota Joe Thompson, who has estimated that as much as $9 billion has been stolen through fraud schemes in the state.
The US Justice Department said Monday that it has charged 98 individuals in connection with the fraud investigation, with more prosecutions expected as the inquiry continues. Attorney General Pam Bondi said 85 of the individuals charged so far are of Somali descent.
Emmer said the US will not tolerate those who exploit government programs.
"Additionally, if any naturalized Somalis had undisclosed ties to terrorist organizations like Al-Shabaab, I want to see their citizenship revoked and their asses sent back immediately. Same goes for anyone who is found to have committed marriage fraud during the immigration process," he added.
