JD Vance said the Department of Justice is investigating Ilhan Omar during a White House briefing on Tuesday, increasing attention around the Minnesota Democrat and speculation about possible charges.
Speaking while filling in for press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Vance referenced long-running allegations involving Omar’s immigration history, marriage records, and campaign finances. He said the DOJ is “looking at” the matter and would prosecute if evidence of a crime is found.
Omar has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and dismissed past accusations as politically motivated. Reports previously claimed the Biden-era DOJ reviewed aspects of her finances and campaign activity in 2024 but did not pursue charges after investigators reportedly found insufficient evidence.
The renewed scrutiny also comes as Republicans continue investigating Minnesota’s massive Feeding Our Future fraud scandal and attempt to connect Omar to pandemic-era nutrition programs. A Republican-led Minnesota House committee recently failed to subpoena Omar after Democrats blocked the effort.
The DOJ has not officially confirmed any active investigation, and Omar’s office has not publicly responded to Vance’s latest remarks.
