Omar Fateh holds Somali-language rally for Minneapolis mayoral bid
By Frank Ulom
MINNESOTA (CONVERSEER) – A small rally in support of Minneapolis Democratic Socialist mayoral candidate Omar Fateh was held on Sunday night, conducted largely in Somali and broadcast by Somali TV Minnesota.
Fateh, a Minnesota state senator and the first Somali American and Muslim elected to the state’s Senate, announced his candidacy for mayor last year. He recently secured the endorsement of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party, defeating incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey for the party’s backing.
Rally Highlights
During the gathering, which featured Somali music and speeches in Somali, Fateh and several supporters addressed the crowd, urging canvassing efforts ahead of the September primary. Fateh closed his remarks by saying in English and Somali: “Let’s get to work, Inshallah.”
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No American flags were displayed at the event, though some attendees wore stickers featuring the Palestinian flag. The Daily Caller News Foundation noted it could not provide an immediate translation of Fateh’s Somali-language remarks.
Policy Platform
Fateh is campaigning on a progressive platform that includes protections for undocumented residents, whom he says face hostility from the federal government. His proposals also call for freezing rents and raising the minimum wage. His agenda mirrors that of New York City candidate Zohran Mamdani, who has championed a $30 minimum wage and government-run grocery stores.
Background
Fateh rose to prominence in 2020 after defeating long-time Democrat Jeff Hayden to win a seat in the Minnesota Senate. His political stance contrasts with Mayor Frey, who has faced criticism since the 2020 unrest in Minneapolis, particularly over his opposition to dismantling the police department and his handling of National Guard deployment during the riots.
Fateh’s endorsement by the DFL over Frey has shifted momentum in the mayoral race, with the September primary expected to be a decisive test of voter support.
