WATCH: Minnesota Lt Governor Peggy Flanagan Wears Hijab to Pander to Somalis
Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan recently appeared in a video addressing members of the state’s Somali community while visiting the Somali Carmel Market in Minneapolis. In the video, Flanagan wore a hijab and spoke about the role Somali Minnesotans play in the state.
“Assalamu alaikum. My name’s Peggy Flanagan. I am the lieutenant governor of Minnesota, and I’m really honored and humbled to be here with all of you today,” Flanagan said. “I am incredibly clear that the Somali community is part of the fabric of the state of Minnesota.”
Flanagan, who is not Muslim, referenced longtime personal relationships as she spoke about the community’s presence in the state. “I think about my friendship with Nimco — we’ve been friends for almost 25 years — and when I think of being part of Minnesota and growing up here, the Somali community has always been a part of my Minnesota,” she said.
Minnesota Lt Governor Peggy Flanagan put on a hijab to pander to Somalis
“The Somali community is part of the fabric of the state of Minnesota” pic.twitter.com/aC37FIJekj
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) December 26, 2025
The appearance comes at a time when Minnesota has faced ongoing scrutiny over large-scale fraud cases linked to organizations connected to the Somali community, including scandals that resulted in the loss of billions of taxpayer dollars. Those cases have fueled political debate and public backlash across the state.
During her visit, Flanagan encouraged Minnesotans to support Somali-owned businesses and immigrant communities. “I want to encourage other folks to show up, support our Somali businesses, support our immigrant neighbors,” she said. Acknowledging uncertainty and concern among immigrants, she added, “I know that things are scary right now, and just know that there are more people who are looking out for you and more people who are here to support you than you know.”
FLASHBACK: Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan of Minnesota discusses gender-affirming care while wearing a shirt with the message “Protect Trans Kids.”
“This is life saving and life affirming healthcare.”
“When our children tell us who they are, it is our job as grown-ups to listen and to… pic.twitter.com/VXUIGF2zsG
— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) August 27, 2025
Flanagan concluded by reaffirming her support for the community. “I will continue to stand with the Somali community, to be with you and to do all I can to return the friendship and community that the Somali community has shown me.”
Critics have pointed to what they see as political contradictions in Flanagan’s outreach. Just months earlier, in August, she publicly wore a T-shirt featuring a knife alongside the slogan “Protect Trans Kids,” highlighting her strong support for transgender rights. Some have questioned how that advocacy aligns with engagement in more socially conservative Muslim communities, where views on LGBT issues can differ sharply.
Opponents argue that Flanagan tailors her message to specific audiences while avoiding deeper discussion of ongoing issues such as crime, fraud, and governance challenges facing the state. Supporters, meanwhile, say her outreach reflects an effort to stand with immigrant communities during periods of heightened political tension.
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