A man yelled at U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar after he sprayed her with an unknown liquid during a town hall meeting in Minneapolis on Jan. 27, 2026, shortly after protests over a fatal shooting by federal immigration agents. Bystanders quickly tackled him as the event unfolded. USA Today
Ilhan Omar faced a frightening moment during a town hall meeting in Minneapolis late on Jan. 27 when a man rushed toward her and sprayed an unknown substance on her. The incident happened as Omar addressed a crowd on immigration issues and national politics.
Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota who was born in Somalia, has often drawn strong reactions because of her views and public criticism from political opponents, including Donald Trump.
Man Rushed the Stage
Witnesses said the man moved quickly toward Omar while she spoke. At the time, she called for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and demanded the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The man sprayed the substance onto Omar’s torso and spoke to her as he did so. People in the room did not know what he said or what liquid he used. Bystanders reacted immediately and tackled the man to the ground.
Police then arrested him at the scene.
Omar Refused to Stop Speaking
Despite pleas from people around her to pause the meeting and seek medical care, Omar chose to continue. She asked for a napkin and addressed the crowd.
"Please don't let them have the show,” she said. "We will continue… They are not going to get away with this."
Some attendees expressed concern for her safety. One woman urged Omar to get checked, saying, "Whatever it is smells so bad; she needs to go get checked. It’s about your safety; you need to go get checked. It smells terrible."
Police Confirm Details
A spokesperson for the Minneapolis Police Department said the man used a syringe to spray an unknown liquid. Police confirmed that Omar did not suffer injuries during the incident.
Officers took the suspect to the Hennepin County Jail, where he faces assault charges. Police did not immediately release his name.
City forensic scientists arrived at the venue to examine the area and collect evidence.
Meeting Continued Under Security
Security escorted the man out of the room while Omar continued addressing the audience. She repeated her calls for accountability within the federal government and did not back down from her earlier remarks.
"It is important for me to continue to lead my Democratic colleague in demanding her resignation," she said. "If she does not resign, we’re going to introduce articles of impeachment."
Community Reaction
The incident left many attendees shaken, especially as protests and public tension remain high in Minneapolis following recent confrontations involving federal authorities. Supporters praised Omar’s resolve, while others stressed the need for stronger security at public events.
Police continue to investigate the case and review the substance involved.
