In a move that has raised strong reactions, former President Donald Trump announced on November 21, 2025, that he is immediately terminating the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali nationals living in Minnesota. Here is the full Story

Trump’s Sudden Termination of TPS for Somali Nationals Sparks Outcry Across Minnesota

In move that has triggered intense debate nationwide, former President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he is immediately terminating the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Somali nationals residing in Minnesota. The decision, delivered during a press briefing at Mar-a-Lago, has stirred strong reactions from immigrant communities, legal advocates, political leaders, and Minnesota residents.

According to Trump’s statement, the TPS program for Somalis originally enacted to protect individuals fleeing violence and instability will end “without delay.” He argued that conditions in Somalia have “improved enough” for nationals to return, adding that “America must prioritize the safety, security, and cultural cohesion of its own citizens.”

The announcement came without the usual DHS-led review process traditionally used to evaluate TPS renewals, leaving many questioning the legality and humanitarian implications of the abrupt termination.

Fear and Uncertainty in Minnesota’s Somali Community

Minnesota is home to the largest Somali population in the United States. For thousands of families, TPS has served as a lifeline—providing work authorization, protection from deportation, and stability while their home country remains volatile.

News of the termination spread quickly across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding communities, sparking fear among TPS holders who now face potential deportation orders.

“I’ve lived here for over 15 years. My children were born here. My entire life is here,” said one Somali TPS holder, describing the announcement as “a nightmare I prayed would never come.”

Local community organizations reported receiving hundreds of calls within hours of Trump’s remarks.

Political Leaders Condemn the Announcement

Minnesota lawmakers condemned the move as “reckless,” “inhumane,” and “politically motivated.”

Rep. Ilhan Omar, herself a Somali American and a frequent critic of Trump, released a statement saying:

> “This decision jeopardizes innocent lives and destabilizes communities that have contributed economically, culturally, and socially to our state.”

Sen. Amy Klobuchar called for an immediate injunction, saying the termination “violates due process and undermines America’s humanitarian commitments.”

Legal Challenges Expected

Immigration attorneys expect swift legal action, arguing that the president lacks the authority to terminate TPS without a formal DHS review based on country conditions.

“TPS cannot simply be switched off like a light,” said an immigration law expert in Minneapolis. “There are established procedures, and this announcement appears to ignore all of them.”

Advocacy groups are preparing lawsuits aimed at blocking implementation until federal courts can review the legality of the action.

Broader National Implications

The move has revived a long-running national debate over immigration, humanitarian protections, and the scope of executive power.

Supporters of Trump’s decision argue that TPS was never meant to be permanent and that U.S. resources should not be used to support long-term stays.

Opponents counter that Somalia remains deeply unstable, with ongoing militant activity, political turmoil, and humanitarian crises—making forced return dangerous and irresponsible.

What Happens Next?

As Minnesota’s Somali community braces for uncertain days ahead, immigration advocates are urging affected individuals to seek legal counsel, maintain documentation, and stay informed about upcoming court developments.