Key takeaways:

• Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan wore a hijab to show unity with the Somali community.
• She greeted locals at Karmel Somali Market with “Salam alaikum” and spoke some Arabic.
• Far-right activists attacked her gesture online, calling it un-American.
• The move underscores deep political divides ahead of the Minnesota Senate race.

Peggy Flanagan hijab tour shows solidarity

Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor wore a hijab when she visited a Somali market in Minneapolis. She stood beside Somali leaders and spoke partly in Arabic. Flanagan opened with “Salam alaikum” and thanked the community for its friendship. She reminded everyone that the Somali community is part of Minnesota’s fabric. Then she urged people to support Somali businesses and immigrant neighbors.

She is Catholic and Native American by background. Yet she chose to don a hijab to honor Muslim traditions. Moreover, she spoke Arabic phrases to connect with Somali residents. In televised footage, she appeared grateful and respectful. She said, “Growing up here, the Somali community has always been part of my Minnesota.”

Far-right backlash to Peggy Flanagan hijab solidarity

However, far-right figures erupted in anger. Former congressional candidate Laura Loomer wrote that any politician who embraces Islam must be removed from office. Then ex-Trump strategist Steve Bannon called the event an exhibition of “Christians / Catholics bending the knee” to appease an “entitled Somalian thug ethos.”

Meanwhile, former President Trump has also targeted Somali-American communities in recent weeks. He has repeatedly called for the deportation of Rep. Ilhan Omar. Omar came from Somalia as a refugee and now represents Minnesota in Congress. Trump cited a small fraud case by a few Somali individuals to attack the whole community. In response, Omar said his comments are “completely disgusting” and “dehumanizing.”

Political stakes in Minnesota’s Senate race

This hijab moment comes as Minnesota prepares for an open Senate seat. Flanagan is one of the top Democratic contenders. The other front-runner is Rep. Angie Craig. Both face a crowded primary in August. The winner will take on a Republican challenger in November.

By visiting the Somali community, Flanagan hopes to strengthen her support among Muslim and immigrant voters. She also wants to show respect for cultural and religious diversity. However, her move might give opponents a chance to paint her as out of touch with some voters. Thus, her hijab visit could play a key role in shaping the campaign narrative.

Somali community welcomes the gesture

Local Somali leaders praised Flanagan’s visit and the choice to wear a hijab. They called it a genuine sign of respect. One community elder said he felt seen and heard by her action. Another leader noted that few public officials make such personal gestures.

Shoppers at Karmel Market cheered as Flanagan arrived. Some held up their phones to capture the moment. Somali-language TV stations aired segments of her visit, highlighting the rare show of solidarity. Overall, the event boosted morale and pride among many Somali residents.

What this means for future campaigns

Moving forward, political campaigns may adopt similar acts of solidarity to win over diverse communities. However, they risk provoking backlash from other voter groups. In today’s polarized climate, even small gestures can spark major debates.

Wearing a religious symbol can create strong reactions. Some see it as genuine respect. Others view it as a political stunt. Therefore, campaign teams must carefully weigh both sides before planning such moves.

In Peggy Flanagan’s case, her hijab visit highlighted two powerful realities. First, her strong bond with Minnesota’s Somali community. Second, the fierce criticism she faces from far-right activists. As the Senate race heats up, moments like these will shape voter opinions and media coverage.

Beyond Minnesota, this incident feeds into a national debate on religious freedom, identity, and political theater. It shows how simple acts can carry heavy political weight. Above all, it proves how divided the country remains on issues of culture and faith.

Frequently asked questions

Why did Peggy Flanagan wear a hijab during her visit?

She wore the hijab to honor and show unity with Minnesota’s Somali Muslim community. Her goal was to celebrate cultural traditions and boost community ties.

How did far-right activists respond?

Some far-right figures attacked her gesture. They claimed she overstepped by showing public support for Islam and suggested she should be removed from office.

What was the Somali community’s reaction?

Local Somali leaders and residents praised her choice. They viewed the hijab as a sincere gesture of respect and solidarity. Many cheered her arrival and thanked her for the visit.

Could this hijab visit influence the Senate race?

Yes, it could affect voter enthusiasm. It may boost support among immigrant and Muslim voters but also risk alienating other groups. The true impact will appear on primary and general election day.