A federal search of Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar’s Washington, D.C., home recently drew national attention. Homeland Security Investigations agents searched the property as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. Omar has now spoken out about the experience, saying she can no longer live in the home because of safety concerns.
The congresswoman plans to relocate following the search
The 44-year-old made the announcement on Wednesday. She explained that the attention surrounding the search had made her fear for her family’s safety.
Omar recalled waking up at around 6 a.m. when federal agents began loudly knocking on the doors of her home.
According to The Mirror US, Omar spoke about the incident with MS NOW’s Chris Hayes. She said she was home with her husband and 20-year-old son at the time.
“It sounded like an urgent evacuation sort of situation,” she said.
Omar explained that she initially thought the commotion involved her neighbors. She also recalled struggling to understand what was happening after going to bed only a few hours earlier.
“I think I went to bed at like 3, 3:30, and so it was, you know, trying to figure out if you’re dreaming this weird thing that’s happening. But they basically surrounded the house,” she said.
“They were pounding on the back door and the front door, and, you know, we were screaming that we were coming down. Our bedroom’s upstairs. We were trying to put on clothes and, you know, trying to run down before they broke the door,” she added.
Omar said she now plans to relocate because her address has become widely known. She also said she has received death threats. The congresswoman expressed concern about the safety of her children when they visit the property.
The federal search of Omar’s home took place on October 12. Homeland Security Investigations executed a judicially authorized search warrant. The Department of Justice secured the warrant as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
Reports indicate that investigators are examining possible false statements or fraud involving immigration paperwork. The investigation reportedly involves Omar and members of her family.
Omar has denied wrongdoing. She said she is confident that she did nothing illegal.
Federal officials have not announced charges against the congresswoman. The investigation remains ongoing.
