The re-election of Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey took an unexpected turn when he delivered a portion of his victory address in Somali, thanking supporters in the East African language and citing regions of Somalia as he spoke to the crowd.
In the video that circulated online, Frey thanked residents both in English and Somali, saying “Whether you’re from Bosaso or Mogadishu… Minneapolis is a place where you come to build your future.” His remarks included references to several Somali localities and the city’s Somali community.
The choice to speak in Somali prompted sharp reaction on social media. Conservative commentators labeled the gesture as “un-American” or “humiliating,” arguing that public officials should address the entire electorate in English. Others defended the mayor’s remarks, saying they reflected outreach to a historically overlooked immigrant community.
The tension highlights a larger debate over language, identity, and political communication in diverse American cities. Frederic Hansen, a political analyst, noted that “the moment captured a symbolic recognition of immigrant voters but also triggered questions about inclusivity for all residents.”
Mayor Frey’s campaign, which emphasized community-policing reform and inclusive governance, said the speech was adapted for a city with a large Somali population, roughly 90,000 people. The mayor’s team added they remain committed to representing every Minneapolis resident, regardless of language or background.