United States – During a joint press briefing with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on October 7, U.S. President Donald Trump stirred controversy after likening the Democratic Party to Somalia, a comparison that has drawn condemnation from Somali commentators and political observers.
President Trump claimed the Democratic Party “has no leader,” saying it was “like Somalia,” a statement widely viewed as a mischaracterization of the Horn of Africa nation. He further remarked that he had received calls from Democratic lawmakers regarding the ongoing government shutdown but “did not recognize their names.”
In a moment reminiscent of previous controversies, Trump repeated a past comment that he had once “spoken with Somalia’s president about returning U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar to her homeland,” referring to the Somali-American congresswoman. The remark reignited criticism over his history of racially charged comments targeting women and minorities in U.S. politics.
In Somalia, social media users and political analysts expressed dismay, calling the remarks disrespectful and outdated. Many noted that Somalia, despite its complex challenges, has made steady progress in governance, security, and international cooperation, including its membership in the East African Community and deepening relations with Western partners such as the United States and Canada.
Observers pointed out that the comparison overlooks Somalia’s ongoing state-building efforts and democratic milestones. In recent years, Somalia has strengthened its federal institutions, expanded its diplomatic footprint, and pursued economic reforms under IMF and World Bank programs.
Trump’s comments risk straining U.S.-Somalia relations at a time when Washington is a key partner in counterterrorism and development assistance. Somali officials have yet to issue an official response, but analysts warn that such rhetoric undermines mutual respect between nations working toward peace and progress.