The political landscape in Minneapolis is experiencing a notable shift, with Somali American voters reevaluating their traditional Democratic allegiance. Conversations with members of the community reveal a growing affinity for the Republican Party and Donald Trump, driven primarily by concerns surrounding education and cultural values.

Historically, Somali immigrants, who began arriving in the U.S. in large numbers in the late 1990s, largely aligned with the Democratic Party. However, this trend has seen a reversal in recent elections. Salman Fiqy, a prominent conservative voice within the community and a former Republican candidate for state representative, suggests that changing political priorities have led to this shift.

Fiqy points to education as a key factor, specifically citing concerns about LGBTQ+ agendas in schools. These concerns resonate with the predominantly Muslim Somali American community, which often holds conservative views on family and child-rearing.

This shift in political affiliation is reflected in voting patterns. Support for Democratic candidates has declined significantly in areas with large Somali populations, such as Cedar-Riverside in Minneapolis. One resident, Fatmata, a business owner in Karmel Mall, attributes this change to the alignment of certain Republican stances with traditional Muslim values.

While acknowledging Trump's controversial rhetoric on immigration, Fatmata explains that some Somali Americans prioritized their values over other concerns when casting their ballots. Another business owner, who wished to remain anonymous, cited Trump's pro-business policies as the reason for their support.

However, not all Somali Americans share this perspective. A pharmacist in Cedar-Riverside expressed disbelief that any Somalis would support Trump, highlighting the lack of common ground between the former president and the community. This sentiment underscores the diversity of opinions within the Somali American population.

Despite the differing viewpoints, the shift in political alignment within the Somali American community is undeniable. This evolving dynamic highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing voting decisions, including cultural values, economic considerations, and individual priorities.