Dear Friend,

I did not attend Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress. This decision is rooted in my unwavering commitment to human rights and justice. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis. With over 38,000 Palestinians killed and 88,000 injured, the scale of suffering is immense. Given these circumstances, I believe offering Netanyahu the platform of addressing Congress is inappropriate. Instead, my ticket went to a family member of an Israeli hostage. I continue to call for an end to U.S. tax dollars funding these actions and I remain committed to promoting peace, justice, and humanitarian aid in the region. Read my full statement here. 

Save the Date: August 7th Town Hall

Come share your thoughts, concerns, and ideas about the issues that matter most to our district. I will provide updates on my work in Congress and answer your questions. Registration is required.

Date: Wednesday, August 7th
Time: 6:00 PM — 7:00 PM CT
Location:
Mount Olivet Church
5025 Knox Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55419

Paul D. Wellstone Building Dedication

The Minneapolis Federal Building now proudly bears the name of Senator Paul D. Wellstone. What a powerful way to keep his legacy alive in the heart of our city! I joined the building dedication ceremony with Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Tina Smith, and Paul’s son, Dave Wellstone.

Paul wasn't just a politician; he was a fighter for the people, a voice for the voiceless, and an inspiration to so many of us. His passion for justice and equality still echoes in these halls. Every time we walk into this building, we'll be reminded of Paul's commitment to our community. 

Zero Waste Tour with State Rep. Jamie Long

Minnesota House Majority Leader Jamie Long and I had the pleasure of visiting the Sweet Science Ice Cream at 50th and France. During this visit, we were inspired by the incredible work that small businesses like Sweet Science and local governments like the City of Edina and Hennepin County all do to reduce waste and protect our environment. 

As a Congresswoman, I am committed to supporting access to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment. That is why I introduced the Zero Waste Act. My bill would support the 5th District through effective grant programs for recycling, composting, and waste reduction. I am proud to say that part of this bill has already been signed into law, and I look forward to working on other pieces of legislation to help support the vision of a cleaner Minnesota.

Community Conversation on Gun Violence Prevention with Tennessee State Rep. Justin Jones

Last week, we hosted a powerful Community Conversation on Gun Violence Prevention at Capri Theater in North Minneapolis that brought together local leaders and national voices to address this critical issue. We were honored to welcome special guest Tennessee State Rep. Justin Jones, whose courage and insights in the face of adversity truly inspired our community.

Our panel of local experts included:
●      Minnesota State Rep. Cedrick Frazier
●      Jordan Borer Nelson, Executive Director of MAD DADS
●      Muhammad Abdul-Ahad, Executive Director of T.O.U.C.H.

These leaders and community members shared invaluable perspectives on the complexities of gun violence in our neighborhoods and the innovative solutions being implemented locally. The conversation underscored a crucial point: preventing gun violence is not just about safety—it's about creating a future where all our children can thrive without fear. While the challenge is significant, the energy and commitment in the room last week showed that together, we can create lasting change. I remain committed to supporting common-sense gun safety legislation that protects our communities and plan to continue the conversation with a round table on this issue in the fall. 

Make Polluters Pay Press Conference

I spoke at a press conference to address the urgent need to hold corporate polluters accountable for their role in the climate crisis. As communities across America grapple with the stark realities of climate change it's clear that these are no longer distant threats, but immediate challenges reshaping our lives and economy. That's why Senator Bernie Sanders and I have re-introduced the End Polluter Welfare Act. This crucial legislation aims to close tax loopholes and eliminate corporate handouts to the oil, gas, and coal industries. I'm committed to ending this era of corporate welfare and building the clean, affordable energy future we all deserve. Watch my full remarks here. 

Fighting for our Social Security workers and beneficiaries

I spoke at the American Federation of Government Employees rally to demand full funding for the Social Security Administration (SSA). Our SSA employees are the backbone of this critical program that millions of Americans rely on, yet staff are stretched thin and overworked. When we shortchange SSA funding, we're shortchanging seniors, people with disabilities, and families who've lost a breadwinner. I’m proud to stand with the American Federation of Government Employees and SSA to fight to fully fund the SSA, ensuring that staff receives the proper resources to serve our seniors.

Fighting for the Fifth Constituent Testimonial: Fernando

So glad my office was able to help Fernando with Social Security and Medicare Part B benefits that he’s been struggling with for over 10 years.

“I had been struggling with a Social Security and Medicare Part B issue for the past 20 years” said Fernando, resident of Minnesota’s 5th District. “When I turned 65 and attempted to apply for Medicare benefits at the Social Security office, I was told that I would need to wait until I had worked 10 years in the US to apply. When I returned after working for 10 years, I was able to apply for Medicare, but was charged a high premium for not applying when I had turned 65. I have worked for the last 10 years on appealing this decision to no avail. When I attended a Town Hall hosted by Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, I informed her staff on my situation, and they were able to assist me in inquiring with the SSA. Within 3 months of working with Rep. Omar's office the SSA has granted my appeal and removed my medical premium surcharge. I will now receive my full SSA benefit and am so grateful to Congresswoman Omar and her team for their help in resolving this situation.”

If you or anyone you know in the 5th District has an issue with federal government services, we are here to help—whether on immigration, Social Security claims, Veterans benefits, or more. You can call our office at 612-333-1272 or visit omar.house.gov for assistance.

In Service,

Ilhan Omar