'Married brother to bring him into USA': DHS probe Ilhan Omar's immigration history

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin disclosed details of an ongoing inquiry into Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar's immigration history, stating federal authorities are probing allegations that she married her brother to assist him in entering the United States. Speaking at the Republican National Convention in Dallas, Mullin said investigators are delving into the broader immigration history of Omar's family, in addition to the disputed marriage allegation.

He added, "We know that she married her brother to try to bring him into the United States," but stressed that there "may be more to this" and that authorities are exploring "possible illegal activity" related to the family's entry into the US. Mullin affirmed that the matter remains under investigation and that authorities would act only if concrete evidence of wrongdoing is found.

The allegations pertain to Omar's 2009 marriage to British citizen Ahmed Nur Said Elmi, with conservative critics alleging the marriage was entered to facilitate his immigration to the US. Omar has consistently denied the claim, asserting Elmi was not her brother and rejecting allegations of immigration fraud. The allegations gained prominence in 2019 following calls from then-President Donald Trump and conservative groups for an investigation, but no court has confirmed the claims.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that investigators are examining whether false information was provided during the immigration process and could pursue potential violations even years after the alleged actions. However, the agency declined to confirm specific allegations or identify charges against Omar, emphasizing that no one, including members of Congress, is above the law.

Previous investigations have questioned aspects of Omar's marriage history but have not substantiated the central allegation.